Russia detains minor over alleged Moscow attack plot after US warning

Russian authorities say a US tip-off helped them identify a teenager suspected of planning an attack at a Moscow park. The suspect, a Russian citizen, posted photos on TikTok wearing a balaclava and tactical clothing while holding what appeared to be an automatic weapon.

The photos were taken at the Tsaritsyno Museum Reserve in southern Moscow, with the caption: "I found a place." A search of the suspect's home uncovered the clothing and accessories seen in the photos, according to Russia's Federal Security Service (FSB).

US Warning

The detention came after the US embassy in Moscow issued a security alert warning of a "credible threat of a mass casualty event" at the popular palace and park complex. The embassy urged people to avoid the area and confirmed coordination with Russian authorities.

We are grateful to the American side for providing the information.

Investigation

The FSB reported that the teen's phone showed searches related to terrorist attacks and mass killings, as well as a subscription to a neo-Nazi Telegram channel. Russia's Investigative Committee is now considering what legal action to take against the suspect.

The US has previously warned Russia about potential attacks, including in March 2024, weeks before an attack on a Moscow concert hall by an affiliate of the ISIL group that killed more than 140 people. The latest warning comes despite longstanding tensions between Washington and Moscow over Russia's war in Ukraine.