The United States had issued a stark warning to Russia about the looming threat of a terrorist attack by extremist groups, particularly targeting large gatherings such as concerts in Moscow. The New York Times reported on Saturday that the US Embassy in Moscow had sounded the alarm on March 7, cautioning of the potential for an imminent attack within 48 hours.
Adrienne Watson, spokesperson for the White House Security Council, confirmed that America had prior knowledge of the planned terrorist attack in Russia. In response, the US State Department had issued a security alert, advising Americans traveling to or residing in Russia to exercise caution.
Meanwhile, White House spokesman John Kirby extended condolences to the families of the victims, expressing horror at the scenes that unfolded during the attack. The tragic incident claimed the lives of at least 60 individuals, with over 145 others sustaining serious injuries. Russian authorities fear the death toll may rise further as investigations continue.
In the aftermath of the attack, the Russian government has ramped up security measures at airports and other key locations, while also cancelling all scheduled meetings and gatherings as a precautionary measure.
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The United States has stated that Ukraine is not implicated in the terrorist attack at Kraków City Hall in Moscow. According to a statement, there are no indications of Ukrainian involvement in the tragic incident.
John Kirby, spokesman for the US National Security Council, revealed that the US had been gathering intelligence since the attack occurred. He emphasized that there is no evidence pointing to Ukrainian involvement in the attack. Kirby extended his condolences to the victims and their families, expressing profound sorrow at the distressing images that emerged from the scene.
Despite previous warnings from the United States regarding the possibility of extremist groups orchestrating acts of sabotage ahead of the Russian presidential election, Kirby clarified that they had no specific intelligence about the attack prior to its occurrence.
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