VIDEO: Putin Issues Statement Following Terrorist Attack

Russian President Vladimir Putin described the event at Crocus as a bloody terrorist attack. He made this statement in a video message regarding the terrorist attack that occurred at Crocus City Hall.

“I address you concerning a bloody barbaric act of terrorism, which claimed the lives of dozens of peaceful, innocent people, our compatriots, including children, adolescents, and women,” the president said at the beginning of his speech.

He announced that March 24 has been declared a nationwide day of mourning in Russia.

Vladimir Putin stated that the arrested terrorists attempted to flee to Ukraine, where, according to preliminary data, a “window” had been prepared for them.

The president noted that those who carried out the attack, as well as the organizers and clients, will face just punishment. “We will identify and punish everyone who is behind the terrorists, who prepared this heinous act,” Putin said.