The attack in Moscow last Friday that resulted in 139 deaths was claimed by the Islamic State, but Russian President Vladimir Putin and his government continue to insist that Ukraine and the West are behind it. Although Russia has accused Ukraine of providing a “window” for the attackers to cross the border, which is a risky move considering the heavily guarded border next to a war zone, Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko revealed that Belarus and Russia coordinated actions to intercept the suspects’ car fleeing towards the border with Ukraine and Belarus.
Lukashenko also mentioned that Belarus quickly established border checkpoints, preventing the suspects from entering the country. However, Bortnikov, head of FSB, stated that Western and Ukrainian special services were involved in facilitating the attack. He did not provide any specific evidence for these claims. The comments from Russian officials suggest an escalation of tension and potential military action in Ukraine as Moscow seeks to impose its narrative and control over the situation. Eight suspects are now in preventive prison, including a Kyrgyz-born man who may be connected to the mass shooting.
