Putin hints at potential connection to Ukraine; Refuses to comment on ISIS link in Moscow attack

The Kremlin declined to provide any comments on Monday regarding the claims by the Islamic State group asserting its responsibility for the deadliest attack in Russia in two decades. This comes as rescuers continue to search for bodies amidst the wreckage of the burnt-out Moscow concert hall.

Eleven individuals have been apprehended in connection with the assault, during which camouflaged gunmen stormed into Crocus City Hall, unleashed gunfire on concert attendees, and set the structure ablaze, resulting in the death of at least 137 people.

Islamic State militants have reiterated their responsibility for the attack multiple times since Friday. IS-affiliated media outlets have also circulated graphic videos depicting the gunmen inside the venue.

However, Russian President Vladimir Putin, in his only public statement regarding the massacre on Saturday, hinted at a potential connection to Ukraine. No senior Russian official has addressed the IS claims.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov, when asked why Russia had not responded to IS’s alleged involvement, stated, “The investigation is still ongoing. No coherent version has yet been voiced.”

Officials anticipate a rise in the death toll as rescuers continue to search for remains, with 97 individuals still hospitalized.

Putin has no plans to visit the attack site on the northwestern outskirts of Moscow, according to Peskov. However, he will convene a meeting later on Monday with Russia’s security chiefs, government officials, and the heads of Moscow and the Moscow region.

Despite questions surrounding how the powerful security agencies failed to prevent the attack despite warnings from the United States’ intelligence apparatus, the Kremlin expresses confidence in these agencies.

During late-night court hearings in Moscow that extended into Monday morning, four of the suspects were presented in court, with visible injuries on their faces. They were identified as Muhammadsobir Fayzov, Shamsidin Fariduni, Rachabalizoda Saidakrami, and Dalerjon Mirzoyev, all citizens of Tajikistan.

Two of them pleaded guilty, while three others, identified as family members Aminchon Islomov, Dilovar Islomov, and Isroil Islomov, were remanded in pre-trial detention on Monday. One of the detained individuals holds Russian citizenship.

All detainees face charges of terrorism and could be sentenced to life imprisonment. The Kremlin has rejected suggestions of reintroducing the death penalty.

The attack, which claimed at least 137 lives, involved gunmen shooting spectators before setting fire to the building. Victims died from both gunshot wounds and smoke inhalation.

The gunmen stormed the concert hall, which was hosting a sold-out rock concert with over 5,000 attendees, before initiating the attack.

Rescuers will continue their efforts to clear debris and search for remains until Tuesday evening.

President Putin has vowed “retribution and oblivion” for the perpetrators, stating that the assailants were apprehended while attempting to flee to Ukraine.

The FSB has indicated that the gunmen had “contacts” in Ukraine. However, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has denied any involvement.

France’s President Emmanuel Macron cautioned Russia against using the attack to blame Kyiv.

Russia observed a national day of mourning on Sunday, with tributes paid to the victims across the country.

Special lessons on “terrorism” were held in Russian schools on Monday, with students wearing white ribbons in honor of the victims.

Tajikistan’s President Emomali Rahmon condemned the attack and emphasized the need for increased attention to children’s education in light of the incident.