WASHINGTON, March 23 – A White House National Security Council spokesperson told Sputnik that the United States recently shared information with Russian authorities regarding a planned terrorist attack against Russia.
“Earlier this month, the US Government had information about a planned terrorist attack in Moscow – potentially targeting large gatherings, to include concerts – which prompted the State Department to issue a public advisory to Americans in Russia,” the spokesperson said on Friday.
“The US Government also shared this information with Russian authorities in accordance with its longstanding ‘duty to warn’ policy.”
A shooting occurred on Friday in the Crocus City Hall concert venue just outside Moscow to the northwest, followed by a massive fire.
According to preliminary data, several armed men opened fire inside the venue. Emergency and security services are responding to the crisis.
Russia’s Investigative Committee opened a criminal case into the terrorist attack.
According to the Russian Federal Security Service (FSB), 40 people were killed and more than 100 others were injured. Russia’s Investigative Committee said over 60 people had been killed in the attack.
