US Embassy Warns of Imminent Attack in Moscow by Islamic State Terrorists

The US Embassy in Russia issued a warning indicating potential security threats in Moscow, citing concerns about extremists planning to target large gatherings, including concerts.

The embassy urged American citizens to exercise caution and avoid crowded areas in the next 48 hours. However, specific details about the nature of the threat were not provided.

This warning, echoed by the British embassy in Moscow, came shortly after Russia’s Federal Security Service (FSB) announced that it had thwarted an attempted attack on a synagogue in Moscow.

The FSB disclosed that a cell linked to the Islamic State, operating in Russia’s Kaluga region, had planned the attack.

The militants intended to use firearms against the congregants of the synagogue, according to the FSB statement.

During the operation, Russian special forces engaged the militants, resulting in their neutralization.

Firearms, ammunition, and materials for making an improvised explosive device were confiscated during the operation.

It remains unclear whether the U.S. Embassy’s warning and the FSB’s announcement are directly connected.

The conflict in Ukraine has significantly strained relations between Russia and the West, with the Kremlin accusing the United States of supporting Ukraine financially, militarily, and through intelligence means.

This situation has contributed to heightened tensions and security concerns in the region.

The Islamic State cell involved in the foiled attack is reportedly affiliated with ISIS-Khorasan, the Afghan arm of the militant group. ISIS-Khorasan aims to establish a caliphate spanning Afghanistan, Pakistan, Turkmenistan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, and Iran.

Originating in eastern Afghanistan in late 2014, the group has gained notoriety for its extreme brutality.

In response to these developments, the U.S. Embassy has persistently advised American citizens to depart Russia immediately.

As the situation continues to evolve, vigilance and caution are recommended for all individuals in affected areas.

Main Image: By TagMorgan – Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=120224925

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Read also: Swedish Police Arrest 4 Suspected Islamic State Terrorists Ahead of Attack

On Thursday, Swedish police apprehended four individuals suspected of preparing a terrorist crime associated with violent Islamist extremism, as reported by both the Sapo security service and the prosecution agency.

According to a spokesperson from Sapo, the apprehension is believed to be linked to serious organised crime activities and has potential international connections associated with the terrorist group Islamic State (IS).

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