U.S. warned Russia about possible Moscow attack before concert hall shooting
U.S. Embassy in Moscow issued a security alert March 7, warning that its personnel were «monitoring reports that extremists have imminent plans to target large gatherings in Moscow, to include concerts.» The statement warned Americans that an attack could take place in the next 48 hours.
The warning was related to the attack Friday, according to people briefed on the matter. But it was not related to possible Ukrainian sabotage, U.S. officials said, adding that the State Department would not have used the word «extremists» to warn about actions ordered from Ukraine.
Pro-Kremlin voices immediately seized on the U.S. Embassy's warning to paint America as trying to scare Russians.
U.S. officials are worried that President Vladimir Putin of Russia could seek to falsely blame Ukraine for the attack, putting pressure on Western governments to identify who they think may be responsible. Putin frequently twists events, even tragic ones, to fit his public narrative. And he has been quick to accuse Ukraine of acts of terrorism to justify his invasion of the country.
U.S. officials said Putin could do that again after Friday's attack, seeking to use the loss of life to undermine support for Ukraine both domestically and around the world.
On Tuesday, the Russian leader called the U.S. Embassy statement «obvious blackmail» made with «the intention to intimidate and destabilize our society.» But he had yet to comment directly on the attack Friday.
John Kirby, a
