Death toll rises and new details emerge from Moscow concert hall terror attack

At least 137 people were killed and hundreds injured in a terror attack on a terror attack on a Moscow concert hall last Friday. A branch of the Islamic State claimed responsibility for the attack, but Russian President Vladimir Putin did not mention that claim as he tried to link Ukraine to the attack. When the U.S. officials warned Russia of possible terror attacks earlier this month, Putin accused them of trying to “intimidate and destabilize our society.”

Class discussion: Putin’s government imposed some very tough security laws with a promise to protect Russians. Was it an empty promise? Is Putin blaming Ukraine – the nation he invaded – to deflect any criticism over the concert hall attack? Is it possible for any government to prevent all terror attacks? What are you willing to give up to feel safer? Do you mind going through metal detectors or being searched? Would heavily armed officers patrolling an event, airport or school make you feel safer or more afraid?