In March, U.S. intelligence and national security teams obtained information about a planned terrorist attack in Moscow and promptly shared this warning with Russian counterparts. The disclosure came through official channels and was reported by RIA News, citing a spokesperson from the White House National Security Council, Adrienne Watson.
It was stated that the information indicated an attack targeting crowded venues, including music performances, in the Russian capital. The warning was conveyed at high levels of the U.S. government as part of ongoing efforts to protect civilians in international hotspots where the risk of mass casualties is highest.
The spokesperson indicated that this intelligence prompted the U.S. Department of State to issue a public advisory for Americans remaining in the Russian Federation, urging vigilance and caution in public spaces and events. The United States also briefed Russian officials in keeping with long-standing diplomatic practices that emphasize timely warning in situations where innocent lives may be threatened.
Officials noted that the public safety alert reflected a shared responsibility to prevent harm and to minimize casualties in a volatile security environment. The approach aligns with routine international norms that guide how governments communicate potential threats to both citizens abroad and foreign partners in order to avert tragedies.
On the evening of March 22, reports indicate an unidentified group opened fire with automatic weapons at a concert by the Picnic band at Crocus City Hall near Moscow. The assault was followed by a series of explosions and a fire that engulfed parts of the venue. In the aftermath, investigators with the Russian Investigative Committee have reported more than 60 fatalities and significant structural damage, underscoring the severity of the incident.
Media organizations and observers have documented the events as they unfolded, reporting that authorities launched a comprehensive inquiry into the attack and the circumstances surrounding it. The coverage has highlighted the impact on concertgoers, staff, and rescue workers who faced an urgent response scenario in the hours after the incident.
Officials had previously urged readers to critically assess information circulating about emergencies in the Moscow region, emphasizing the importance of relying on official statements and verified briefings rather than unverified social media posts. The aim has been to prevent the spread of misinformation during a tense period and to help the public stay informed through credible channels.