Amid a large-scale shooting and fire incident at a performance venue on the outskirts of Moscow, Russia, the Islamic extremist armed group Islamic State (IS) claimed responsibility.
On the 22nd (local time), IS asserted that the shooting at a large performance venue in Moscow, Russia, was their act.
On the 22nd (local time), flames soared at a concert hall in the Krasnogorsk area on the outskirts of Moscow, Russia, where assailants broke in, fired guns indiscriminately, and then a fire broke out. [Photo by Yonhap News]
According to AFP, IS stated in a Telegram message shortly after the shooting was reported, "(IS fighters) attacked a large gathering held on the outskirts of Moscow, the capital of Russia."
Earlier on the evening of the 22nd, at the Crocus City Hall performance venue located in the northwest outskirts of Moscow, at least three armed assailants stormed in and indiscriminately fired guns, followed by a large fire. Local media reported that the death toll reached 62, with at least 146 injured.
Dmitry Medvedev, Deputy Chairman of the National Security Council, said on Telegram that "If it is confirmed that they are terrorists of the Kyiv regime, all of them will be found and mercilessly destroyed."
He emphasized that there is no other way to deal with terrorists, stating, "Representatives of the country that committed such crimes will also be subject to punishment." He warned of retaliation, saying, "Death for death."
Meanwhile, Maria Zakharova, spokesperson for the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, criticized the United States for stating that "there is currently no indication that Ukraine or Ukrainians are involved" in the incident.
In an interview with 'Rossiya 24' broadcast, Zakharova questioned, "On what basis can U.S. officials conclude someone's innocence amid this tragedy?" and criticized, "If the U.S. has reliable information, it should immediately send it to Russia."
She added, "If such information does not exist, the White House has no right to grant anyone a pardon."
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