Crocus City Hall shooting triggers wave of xenophobia in Russia

Anti-immigrant rhetoric has intensified in Russia following the shooting at Crocus City Hall, which could escalate into ethnic hatred within the country, according to a New York Times article published on March 27.

In the aftermath of the tragic shooting at Crocus City Hall, Russia is witnessing a surge in anti-immigrant sentiment, particularly against Tajik nationals, following the detention of four suspects linked to the attack.

This incident has exacerbated the xenophobia that millions of migrant workers, especially from Tajikistan, have historically faced in Russia.

Renowned Russian human rights advocate Svetlana Gannushkina expressed concerns over the exploitation of migrants both as military personnel and laborers.

"Migrants are needed as ‘cannon fodder’ for the Russian army and ‘as labor’," said Gannushkina, noting a likely scapegoating of Tajiks in the guise of counterterrorism efforts.

The atmosphere in Moscow is tense, reminiscent of the early 2000s when Muslims from the Caucasus region were subjected to discrimination post-Chechnya conflict and terror incidents. A local food business manager noted the palpable fear among the Tajik community, many of whom are reluctant to venture outdoors.

Tajik human rights activist Saidanvar highlighted fears among the Tajik population of potential conscription into the conflict in Ukraine or mass deportations as punitive measures. The Russian authorities' narrative, which includes concocting a Ukrainian connection to the attack, has been met with skepticism internationally. Ukraine has outright denied any involvement, a stance echoed by the U.S. State Department, dismissing any evidence linking Ukraine to the incident.

Read also: Why Russia is trying to blame Ukraine for Crocus City Hall attack: expert opinion

While the Islamic State has claimed responsibility for the attack, doubts persist within Putin's inner circle regarding the alleged Ukrainian involvement, with Kremlin insiders reportedly skeptical of the official line that continues to implicate Ukraine in the tragedy.

Read also: ISIS behind Crocus City Hall shooting in Moscow - ISW

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Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine