The U.S. Department of State issued a strong statement denouncing the terrorist attack in Moscow on Friday, which resulted in the deaths of over 130 people.
“The United States strongly condemns the deadly terrorist attack that occurred in Moscow yesterday,” the statement expressed. “We offer our sincerest sympathies to the families and loved ones of the victims and all those affected by this terrible crime. We denounce terrorism in all its forms and stand in solidarity with the people of Russia as they mourn the loss of life from this terrible incident.”
The attack took place at a concert hall near Moscow, as stated by Russia’s Federal Security Service, with gunmen opening fire during the event. Several videos shared online show at least three gunmen in camouflage using automatic weapons.
Russian authorities have detained detained 11 individuals connected to the attack, including four directly involved in Moscow's deadliest act of terrorism in over a decade. Over 140 people have been injured as a result of the attack. Firefighters were sent to the concert hall after the building was set on fire and the roof collapsed.
The Islamic State group ISIS has asserted responsibility for the attack in a statement Friday evening, as reported by SITE, an intelligence group. A U.S. official informed The Associated Press that U.S. agencies had confirmed that the Islamic State was behind the attack.
Russian President Vladimir Putin attempted to connect the gunmen to Ukraine in his comments after the shooting. Putin alleged that the attackers were heading towards Russia and that a passage had been arranged for them to cross the border. Ukraine has denied any involvement in the attack.
White House national security adviser John Kirby stated on Friday that there is no evidence linking Ukraine to the attack, despite Putin’s accusations.
In a post on X, the platform previously known as Twitter, Secretary of State Antony Blinken denounced the attack, echoing a similar message from his department.
