US ‘strongly condemns’ Moscow terrorist attack

The U.S. Department of State released a statement strongly condemning the terrorist attack that took place in Moscow on Friday, killing more than 130 people.

“The United States strongly condemns yesterday’s deadly terrorist attack in Moscow,” the statement said. “We send our deepest condolences to the families and loved ones of those killed and all affected by this heinous crime. We condemn terrorism in all its forms and stand in solidarity with the people of Russia in grieving the loss of life from this horrific event.”

The attack took place at a concert hall near Moscow, according to Russia’s Federal Security Service, which said gunmen opened fire during the event. At least three gunmen wearing camouflage using automatic weapons are seen in videos shared online.

Russian authorities have detained 11 people related to the attack, including four who were directly involved in Moscow’s deadliest act of terrorism in over a decade. More than 140 people are injured due to the attack. Firefighters were dispatched to the concert hall after the building was set on fire and the roof collapsed.

The Islamic State group ISIS claimed responsibility for the attack in a statement Friday evening shared by SITE, an intelligence group. U.S. agencies had confirmed that the Islamic State was behind the attack, an official told The Associated Press.

Russian President Vladimir Putin tried to link the gunmen to Ukraine, in his remarks following the shooting. Putin claimed the attackers were moving toward Russia and a passage was prepped for them to cross the border. Ukraine has denied any involvement in the attack.

White House national security adviser John Kirby said Friday that there isn’t any evidence that Ukraine was involved in the attack, despite Putin’s allegations.

In a post on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter, Secretary of State Antony Blinken condemned the attack, reiterating a similar message put out by his department.