Posted 3/24/2024, 3:33:03 PM
Putin's Delayed Response to Mall Attack Raises Questions About Security Lapse
- Putin took 19 hours to respond to the intelligence failure at Crocus City Hall attack, falling into a familiar pattern of disappearing after crises
- Putin claimed Ukraine allowed the terrorists to escape, but stopped short of directly blaming Ukraine
- Questions remain about the poor security response; conspiracy theories claim parts of Russia's establishment were involved
- The attack represents a blow to Putin's reputation and security services he depends on
- The Kremlin will likely use the attack as a pretext to tighten domestic screws and threaten migrant communities, while blaming Ukraine