The White House announced Friday that the United States had cautioned Russian authorities in early March regarding a potential terrorist attack targeting “large gatherings” in Moscow, shortly after a mass shooting resulted in the deaths of at least 60 individuals outside the Russian capital.
“Earlier this month, the US government had information about a planned terrorist attack in Moscow — potentially targeting large gatherings, to include concerts,” stated National Security Council spokeswoman Adrienne Watson, affirming that Washington “shared this information with Russian authorities.”
Watson emphasized that the Biden administration was adhering to the “duty to warn” policy, a longstanding practice wherein the United States informs nations or entities when it receives intelligence about specific threats aimed at abducting or harming multiple individuals.
Earlier in the day, gunmen opened fire at a Moscow concert hall, resulting in the deaths of over 60 people, injuring more than 100, and triggering a blaze, as reported by authorities. The Islamic State group claimed responsibility for the attack.
US officials informed AFP that they consider the Islamic State’s claim of responsibility to be credible.
According to Russian news agencies, Russia’s Investigative Committee confirmed on Saturday that the death toll had risen to over 60, surpassing the previous count of 40 casualties.