Screenshot, X @LaurenWitzkeDE / Pavel Kazachkov, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons / Screenshot, X @sohoprint, Cropped by Resist the Mainstream

11 suspects have been arrested so far in connection with Friday's deadly terrorist attack at Moscow's Crocus City Hall, including four men suspected of carrying out the attacks directly.

These individuals were apprehended while allegedly attempting to flee to Ukraine, a claim that the Ukrainian government vehemently denies. Videos have circulated on social media claiming to show the suspects under interrogation, but these videos have not been confirmed as authentic.

Several of these videos depict suspects confessing to carrying out the attack at the behest of recruiters in exchange for money, with one such individual purporting he was offered 500,000 Rubles for his role in the attack.

Despite Putin's omission of the Islamic State in his speech, Kyiv refutes any associations with the event, denouncing attempts by Russian officials to link Ukraine to the incident amidst the ongoing conflict between the two nations.

In the wake of the attack, which not only claimed numerous lives but also left many injured and caused extensive damage to the venue, President Putin described the incident as “a bloody, barbaric terrorist act.” He confirmed that a total of 11 individuals have been detained in relation to the assault. Additional security measures have been implemented across Russia, and a day of mourning has been declared.

This incident, occurring shortly after Putin secured another six-year term in office, has sparked debate and speculation among Russian social media users and commentators. Questions arise regarding the effectiveness of the country's security apparatus, especially in light of previous warnings from the U.S. about potential attacks.

The U.S. had, in fact, issued alerts about the possibility of imminent attacks targeting large gatherings in Moscow, including concerts, with similar advisories from other Western embassies.

Investigators are currently examining the remnants of Crocus City Hall for additional victims, and the death toll may rise further. The Russian health ministry reported a significant number of people lining up to donate blood in support of the victims.

Amidst the shock and condemnation from the international community, including a statement from the U.N. Security Council and U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, the Islamic State has claimed responsibility for the attack. The group's presence and activities remain a point of concern globally, with a history of targeting Russia among other regions.