The Kremlin has refused to comment on the Islamic State’s claim of responsibility for the deadly attack on a Moscow concert hall where at least 137 people were killed. The gunmen stormed Crocus City Hall, shooting spectators before setting the building on fire. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov declined to comment on the group’s suspected involvement and urged journalists to rely on information from law enforcement agencies. He also did not provide the names of the suspects arrested in connection with the attack.
Four men appeared in court in Moscow with bruises and cuts on their faces in relation to the attack. Two of the defendants pleaded guilty, and all four were remanded in custody on “terror” charges until at least May 22. Peskov declined to address questions about signs of beating and torture on the men, and also did not comment on whether the Kremlin had received intelligence from Western governments prior to the mass killing. Russian President Vladimir Putin suggested a possible Ukraine connection to the attack, and no senior Russian official has acknowledged the Islamic State’s claims.
Rescue workers are continuing to search for victims at Crocus City Hall, with officials expecting the death toll to rise. Ninety-seven people are still receiving treatment at the hospital following the attack. Peskov emphasized that intelligence is not provided directly to the Kremlin but instead through special service channels. The U.S. Embassy in Moscow had issued a warning of “imminent plans” by extremists to carry out attacks in Moscow before the incident.
The court hearings in Moscow occurred late into the night and early hours of Monday, with journalists present at the Basmanny District Court to witness the proceedings. The suspects were kept in custody on terror charges, and videos on Russian social media depicted violent interrogations following their arrests. Peskov chose not to respond to questions regarding the treatment of the suspects. Russian officials have been silent on the Islamic State’s claims of responsibility for the attack, which is considered the deadliest ever in Europe.
The Kremlin has refrained from commenting on any potential links between the attackers and the Islamic State, despite the group’s claims. The search for victims and the treatment of survivors continue at Crocus City Hall, underscoring the devastating impact of the attack. Russian authorities are still investigating the incident, with concerns about the possibility of more casualties. Peskov reiterated that intelligence is shared through special service channels rather than directly with the Kremlin, as questions remain about prior warnings regarding extremist threats in Moscow.
