US ‘strongly condemns’ Moscow terrorist attack

The U.S. State Department issued a statement Friday strongly condemning the terrorist attack in Moscow that killed more than 130 people.

“The United States strongly condemns yesterday’s deadly terrorist attack in Moscow.” said the statement. “We extend our deepest condolences to the families and loved ones of those killed and affected by this heinous crime. We condemn all forms of terrorism and condemn the loss of human life caused by this horrific event. We stand in solidarity with the Russian people who mourn their loss.”

Russia’s Federal Security Service said the attack occurred at a concert hall near Moscow, where gunmen opened fire during the event. Videos shared online show at least three gunmen wearing camouflage uniforms and using automatic weapons.

Russian authorities have detained 11 people in connection with the attack, four of whom were directly involved in Moscow’s deadliest terrorist attack in more than a decade. The attack left more than 140 people injured. Firefighters were called to the concert hall after the building was set on fire and the roof collapsed.

The Islamic State group ISIS claimed responsibility for the 2016 attack. statement This was shared by intelligence agency SITE on Friday night. U.S. government agencies have confirmed that Islamic State was behind the attack, an official told The Associated Press.

In remarks after the shooting, Russian President Vladimir Putin sought to link the gunmen to Ukraine. President Putin claimed that the attackers were moving toward Russia and that a passageway was being prepared to cross the border. Ukraine denies involvement in the attack.

White House national security adviser John Kirby said Friday there was no evidence that Ukraine was involved in the attack, despite Putin’s claims.

in Post to Xon the platform formerly known as Twitter, Secretary of State Antony Blinken condemned the attack and reiterated a similar message issued by his department.