Russian Spy Chief: Ukraine involved in Moscow concert hall attack

By Al Mayadeen English
Source: Agencies
24 May 2024 13:04

Alexander Bortnikov, head of Russia's Federal Security Service (FSB), accuses Ukrainian military intelligence of playing a pivotal role in a deadly assault on a concert hall near Moscow in March.

A massive blaze is seen over the Crocus City Hall on March, 22, undated. (AP)

Alexander Bortnikov, the head of Russia's Federal Security Service (FSB), stated that Ukrainian military intelligence played a direct role in a fatal assault on a concert hall near Moscow, resulting in the deaths of over 140 individuals back in March.

"The investigation is ongoing, but it is already safe to say that Ukrainian military intelligence is directly involved in this attack," Bortnikov said as quoted by TASS.

Bortnikov further stated that the NATO military alliance aided in the transportation of "mercenaries and militants of international terrorist organizations from the Middle East, North Africa, and Afghanistan" to Ukraine to engage in combat against Russian forces in the region.

Elsewhere in his remarks, Bortnikov asserted that Islamic State Khorasan was involved in orchestrating the attackers' activities, stressing that Ukrainian military intelligence was also directly involved in the incident.

Russia will not allow 'global conflict' or threats against it: Putin

Russia will do everything in its power to avoid a "global collision", however, it will not accept any threats to the country, Russian President Vladimir Putin said in his address to the Victory Day military parade in Moscow celebrating the 79th anniversary of victory over Nazi Germany on May 9.

Putin also said that the Russian military is "always on alert" and ready to defend its country's sovereignty.

"The West would like to forget the lessons of World War II, but we remember that the fate of humanity was decided in grandiose battles near Moscow and Leningrad," alongside other cities, he declared.

Emphasizing that the fate of Russia is in the hands of every Russian, he explained that the country is "experiencing a difficult milestone period" in its history.

"We celebrate this Victory Day in the conditions of the special military operation – all its participants, those who are on the front lines – they are our heroes. We bow to their perseverance and sacrifice. All of Russia is with you."