Earlier this month, the U.S. embassy in Russia issued a stark warning about an “imminent” mass attack of the kind that happened in Moscow on Friday..READ FULL ARTICLE HERE>>>>
The embassy posted the following message on the U.S. Embassy & Consulates in Russia’s website on March 7:
The Embassy is monitoring reports that extremists have imminent plans to target large gatherings in Moscow, to include concerts, and U.S. citizens should be advised to avoid large gatherings over the next 48 hours.
The embassy urged U.S. citizens to avoid crowds, monitor local media for updates, and be aware of their surroundings. The advisory did not clarify the type of extremists, but the concern was reportedly about ISIS-K, or the Islamic State – Khorasan Province. Hours after the attack, CNN reported that ISIS-K had taken responsibility for the attack, but noted the claim has yet to be independently verified.
Although it was far past the 48 hour window initially given, a mass attack broke out Friday at a concert venue in Moscow. Russian state media reported that 40 people were killed and more than were 100 wound.
Several gunmen opened fire on concertgoers at major concert hall in Moscow, Russia. Video posted online showed the gunmen dressed in fatigues and shooting rifles inside Crocus City Hall on the western edge of Moscow.
The Associated Press described some of the footage posted to social media:
Extended rounds of gunfire could be heard on multiple videos posted by Russian media and Telegram channels. One showed two men with rifles moving through the mall. Another one showed a man inside the auditorium, saying the assailants set it on fire, with incessant gunshots ringing out in the background.
DHQ declares Simon Ekpa, 96 others wanted
Fire and billowing smoke could be seen rising up from the building and people tried to evacuate.
One of the alleged assailants was arrested on scene.
After Friday’s carnage the U.S. Embassy issued a Level 4 travel alert for Russia, writing unequivocally, “At this time, U.S. citizens are advised not to travel to Russia.” For those already in the country, the U.S. State Department posted instructions on “travel options out of Russia.” However, that information is only updated monthly and may change quickly after Friday’s attack.
It’s not known if any of the dead or wounded were Americans..READ FULL ARTICLE HERE>>>>
