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This is a developing story….

In a harrowing incident on Friday, a violent attack unfolded at the Crocus City Hall concert venue located on the outskirts of Moscow, leaving the city and the international community in shock. According to eyewitness accounts, at least three individuals dressed in camouflage forcefully entered the venue and commenced firing with automatic weapons, resulting in multiple injuries. The situation escalated when the assailants used an incendiary device, causing a significant fire within the premises.

Eyewitnesses described terrifying moments as attendees were forced to lie on the ground to evade the gunfire, remaining in this perilous position for approximately 15 to 20 minutes before they could safely evacuate. In response to the attack, emergency services swiftly mobilized, with the Emergencies Ministry confirming the evacuation of about a hundred individuals from the building’s basement. The Moscow Region governor, Andrei Vorobyov, promptly headed to the site, where an operational headquarters was established to manage the crisis.

In a statement, Moscow’s Mayor assured the public that all necessary support and assistance would be extended to those affected, also offering condolences to the victims’ families. The health ministry deployed over 70 ambulances to the scene to attend to the wounded, highlighting the severity of the incident.

Remarkably, members of Piknik, the musical group performing at the time of the attack, were reported safe. Despite the chaos, local transit systems, including the nearby Myakinino metro station, continued to operate, although vehicular movement around the area was heavily impacted by congestion.

Internationally, the incident drew condemnation and concern, with the United States acknowledging the gravity of the attack. The US, alongside other NATO countries, had previously warned of an increased risk of terror attacks within Russia, advising against travel to the region. The Russian Foreign Ministry has called for global condemnation of the attack, labeling it a terror act, and criticized premature speculations regarding the perpetrators’ identities without substantial evidence.

The global community, including nations such as Cuba, Italy, and Egypt, expressed their solidarity with Russia, condemning the violence and extending their condolences to the victims and their families.

As investigations continue, the Russian authorities vow to identify and hold accountable those responsible for this act of terror. This tragic event not only underscores the persistent threat of violence but also the resilience of communities in the face of terror.