"Russian Court Detains Suspects in Moscow Concert Hall Attack Amid Torture Allegations"

Three more suspects in the terrorist attack on the Crocus City Hall concert venue in Russia appeared in court showing signs of torture and abuse, confirming videos and photographs that had surfaced after their arrest suggesting brutal treatment at the hands of Russian authorities. Russian officials have called for reinstating the death penalty, fueling fears of increased repression, while some have suggested even harsher punishment. The suspects, identified as migrant workers from Tajikistan, were accused of aiding the attackers and have been linked to ISIS-K, the branch of the Islamic State that claimed responsibility for the attack. President Vladimir Putin conferred with several leaders, including those of Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, and Turkey, while also suggesting Ukrainian involvement in the attack, a claim denied by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. The incident has raised concerns for the safety of Central Asian migrant workers in Russia, with warnings issued by foreign ministries and officials.