Over 60 Killed in Moscow Concert Hall Terror Attack

Moscow: Around 60 people were killed in a terrorist attack on a concert hall in Moscow, according to Russian authorities. Gunmen dressed in camouflage uniforms stormed the Crocus City concert hall, firing weapons and igniting a grenade or incendiary device. The fire rapidly engulfed the venue, resulting in a devastating tragedy during a performance by the Russian rock band Piknik.

President Vladimir Putin was briefed on the attack, which prompted a major security response. The US condemned the incident, but stated there was no immediate evidence linking it to the conflict in Ukraine. Former Russian President Dmitry Medvedev suggested Ukrainian involvement, though Ukrainian officials denied any connection.

Emergency services evacuated about 100 people through the theatre basement, while others sought refuge on the roof. Despite efforts to contain the blaze, a significant portion of the complex was engulfed in flames.

The Orthodox Church offered prayers for the victims, while past warnings of potential attacks on large gatherings in Moscow underscored the ongoing security concerns. The incident bore similarities to the 2002 hostage crisis at a Moscow theatre and highlighted the persistent threat of terrorism in Russia.

While previous attacks have been linked to Islamist groups or political motives, the specific motivations behind this assault remained unclear. The tragedy struck a somber note in Moscow, prompting cancellations of public events and a nationwide outpouring of grief and solidarity.