EU and NATO powerhouse France has issued a warning for new terrorist attacks in Europe following a deadly assault on a concert venue in Moscow, Russia, which resulted in the deaths of over 130 individuals. A group of men clad in camouflage opened fire on attendees and security personnel during the Friday attack, for which the terrorist group ISIS has claimed responsibility.
The Moscow attack has prompted France to convene an emergency meeting, as the country, hosting the Summer Olympics in July and August, fears a similar catastrophe could unfold within its borders.
"After the attack in Moscow, a council for defense and national security was convened at the Elysée by the President of the Republic," French Prime Minister Gabriel Attal announced on X.
Based on this information, the threat level for a disaster is considered as high as it can possibly be, leading to the decision to elevate the threat level to the highest: "imminent attack threat."
Exceptional Measures
France's terrorism alert system comprises three levels, with the highest level triggered in response to an attack within the country or abroad, or when a threat of an attack is deemed imminent.
Raising the threat level to the highest possible allows for exceptional security measures, including increased patrols by armed forces in public places such as train stations, airports, and religious gathering spots.
Denial of American Warning
Eleven individuals were arrested overnight following the Moscow attack, according to Russian media reports over the weekend.
The United States had recently warned Russia of the potential for a similar attack to occur. "Earlier this month, the U.S. government had information about a planned terrorist attack in Moscow that could possibly target 'major gatherings' in Moscow," stated Adrienne Watson, spokesperson for the U.S. National Security Council, according to Hufvudstadsbladet.
Russia has dismissed these claims. "We have not received any advance notices," said Anatoly Antonov, Russian Ambassador to Washington, to CNN.
