US intelligence tip leads to teen detention in Moscow

The Federal Security Service of Russia confirmed on Sunday that it detained a minor after receiving specific intelligence from the United States about preparations for a terrorist attack in the capital.

The FSB stated that it verified information passed through established partner channels by US law enforcement. The agency said the detention resulted directly from operations launched after that verification.

The suspect, a Russian teenager, had posted videos on TikTok showing himself in tactical gear. The footage included a balaclava, a cap, protective eyewear, and headphones while he held an object resembling an automatic weapon.

A search of the boy's devices found a subscription to a neo-Nazi channel on the Telegram messaging app. Authorities also noted a high number of search queries related to past terrorist attacks, mass shootings, and other violent incidents.

The US Embassy in Moscow separately acknowledged awareness of a credible threat of a mass casualty event at the Tsaritsyno Museum Reserve on Saturday. The embassy said it was coordinating with Russian officials on the matter.

The Tsaritsyno complex, a palace and park area south of Moscow, was temporarily closed on Saturday with restricted access. Reports indicated the venue was evacuated near the end of an organ concert, which ended with about ten minutes remaining in the program. A second concert planned for the same day was canceled.

This incident follows a similar warning issued in March 2024. At that time, the US Embassy alerted Russian authorities to imminent extremist plans. Days later, gunmen attacked the Crocus City Hall concert venue outside Moscow, killing more than 140 people.