Putin Announces Day Of National Mourning After ‘Barbaric Terrorist Act’ Kills 140 In Moscow

Moscow: As the toll in the Moscow concert hall attack climbed to 140, President Vladimir Putin called it a ‘barbaric terrorist act’, and announced a day of mourning across Russia on March 24.

“I am speaking to you today in connection with the bloody, barbaric terrorist act, the victims of which were dozens of innocent, peaceful people. I declare March 24 a day of national mourning,” the Russian President said in a televised address to the nation.

A group of armed men stormed into Moscow’s Crocus City Hall concert venue on Friday night, opening fire and detonating explosives.

Russian authorities said all four suspects directly involved in the attack, along with several others, were arrested near the border with Ukraine.

Islamic State (ISIS) claimed responsibility for the deadly attack, without providing any evidence yet.

Earlier this month, the US embassy in Russia said it was “monitoring reports that extremists have imminent plans to target large gatherings in Moscow,” including at concerts.