Moscow Concert Hall Shooting: Russia Mourns, Ponders Putin’s Course of Action
Moscow’s New Arbat Avenue is currently adorned with some of Russia’s largest video screens, all projecting a single solemn message: a burning candle alongside the Russian word “Skorbim” (“We mourn”). The nation is grieving the victims of the Crocus City Hall massacre, with the death toll still uncertain as recovery efforts persist.
Throughout Russia, the tricolour flag flies at half-mast, entertainment and sports events stand cancelled, and television news anchors don attire in mourning black. While Crocus City Hall may not reside in Moscow’s exact heart, it remains a significant music venue in the country. However, Friday’s tragedy transformed the concert hall into a scene of horror, as assailants unleashed not only bullets but also fire, engulfing the building in flames. Distressing footage from Russia’s Investigative Committee illustrates the collapse of the roof and metal beams, underscoring the extent of the devastation.
Outside the venue, police barriers remain in position, offering a glimpse of the charred remnants of the entertainment complex. A makeshift shrine has emerged, with mourners queuing to lay flowers and tributes to the victims, including dolls and soft toys, reflecting the presence of children among the deceased. Messages directed at the attackers convey a mix of sorrow and indignation, with one note branding them as “scum” and vowing never to forgive them.
Among those paying their respects, emotions range from deep sadness to seething anger. Tatyana, overcome with grief, laments the loss of young lives, equating it to the pain of losing her own children. Roman, a local resident who witnessed the tragedy, describes it as horrific and profoundly tragic. Meanwhile, Yevgeny, a pensioner, calls for reinstating the death penalty for terrorists, viewing them as enemies of the nation.
The investigation has led to the arrest of four suspects charged with committing acts of terrorism, identified as Dalerdzhon Barotovich Mirzoyev, Saidakrami Murodali Rachabalizoda, Shamsidin Fariduni, and Muhammadsobir Fayzov. While Mr. Mirzoyev, a Tajik national, has reportedly confessed to the charges, the Islamic State group has claimed responsibility for the attack, sharing graphic images of the assailants. Despite U.S. officials expressing no doubt regarding the group’s claim, the nation continues to grapple with the aftermath of this tragic event.
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