US Embassy warns ‘extremists’ planning attack in Moscow

The U.S. Embassy in Russia issued a security alert warning that “extremists” are planning an attack in Moscow, just after the Kremlin’s intelligence agency said it prevented a potential hit on a synagogue in the capital.

“The Embassy is monitoring reports that extremists have imminent plans to target large gatherings in Moscow, to include concerts, and U.S. citizens should be advised to avoid large gatherings over the next 48 hours,” the U.S. Embassy said in the Thursday alert. 

The warning came hours after Russia’s Federal Security Service (FSS) said it extinguished an attack on a Moscow synagogue by a cell reportedly orchestrated by a militant Sunni Muslim group, according to Reuters. 

It is unclear if the alert and synagogue attempt are linked. The U.S. Embassy cautioned people to avoid crowds, keep an eye on their surroundings and check local media for possible updates. 

The Islamic State cell, an Afghan arm of the group, was working in Russia’s Kaluga region, according to Reuters.

The synagogue attack was going to be done using “firearms,” according to the FSS. Russian special forces “neutralized” the militants with return fire, after which it seized ammunition, weapons and an “improvised explosive device,” it said.  

The warning also comes after the Russia fired a diplomatic warning shot to America’s ambassador ahead of upcoming elections.

The Russian Foreign Ministry summoned U.S. Ambassador to Russia Lynne Tracy on Thursday, warning Washington not to interfere in elections scheduled for next week.

The ministry accused three U.S. nonprofit governmental organizations, including the American Councils for International Education, of employing “anti-Russian programs and projects” to recruit “agents of influence.”