In the wake of the brutal terrorist attack at a concert hall near Moscow that claimed the lives of 144 people and injured 551 others, Vladimir Putin has yet to attend any ceremony honoring the victims or visit their families. The Kremlin has stated that Putin feels deeply sorry for what happened and is fully involved in this type of tragedy. However, his icy demeanor and past as a Soviet secret service agent have led many to question his sincerity.
On March 22, gunmen entered Crocus City Hall, a large concert hall in Moscow, and began shooting into the crowd before setting the building on fire. At least 144 people were killed and 551 were injured in the attack claimed by ISIS-K, making it one of the deadliest attacks in Russia in decades. After the attack, Putin waited until the next day to speak publicly, indicating that he did not immediately plan to meet with the families of the victims or visit the scene of the attack.
Putin’s rare show of emotion came on Sunday when he was filmed lighting candles in memory of the victims at one of Russia’s presidential residences. However, his past as a Soviet secret service agent has made it difficult for many to trust his sincerity when it comes to showing empathy for others.
Representatives from various countries paid tribute to the victims of the attack at a ceremony held at Crocus City Hall. Diplomats from EU, US, Latin America, Asia, Africa, Middle East and CIS countries attended this event which included a minute of silence releasing white balloons and placing flowers at a makeshift memorial in front of venue. A mass was also held near Crocus City Hall by an Orthodox hierarch to commemorate those who lost their lives in this tragic event. Additionally FSB reported arresting eleven individuals including four suspected terrorists involved in this attack. Russia acknowledged involvement of Islamists but also claimed evidence suggesting terrorist financing from Ukraine.
