Russia is mourning after the deadliest terrorist attack it’s seen in 20 years.

Moscow

The Story

Russia is mourning after the deadliest terrorist attack it’s seen in 20 years.

Tell me more.

On Friday, four gunmen stormed a Moscow concert hall and opened fire on a crowd of people before setting the venue on fire, killing at least 137 people and injuring more than 100 others. Russian authorities have since charged four men allegedly responsible for the attack with terrorism charges. The Islamic State group claimed responsibility for the assault, saying it was part of their campaign against “countries fighting Islam.” US officials said they believe an Afghan offshoot of the group, known as ISIS-K, is responsible. But Russian President Vladimir Putin attempted to link the attack to Ukraine.

What do you mean?

In a televised public address on Saturday, Putin alleged the perpetrators were fleeing to Ukraine, where a “window was prepared for them.” He didn’t mention ISIS at all in his remarks. Kyiv denied any involvement in the attack, an assessment US officials have agreed with. Experts say Putin is likely trying to shift the narrative to bolster his war in Ukraine. They also noted the attack could put a dent in his ironclad image as a protector of Russian national security — something Putin championed just a week ago after securing his fifth term as president. Not only were Russian officials unable to prevent the attack, the US had also warned Russia that there was a potential imminent terrorist attack days before the assault, which Putin dismissed.

theSkimm

Since the 2022 invasion of Ukraine, some Russians have been living in a state of anxiety while Putin has continued to strengthen his grip on the country. This latest attack signals Russia could be headed for more instability and reveals a potential weakness in Putin's regime.

What’s keeping the lights on…

The US government. Over the weekend, President Biden signed a $1.2 trillion bipartisan spending package, which funds the government through September. It keeps federal spending at about the same level as during the 2023 fiscal year. There’s a little bit more money in it for security at the southern border and the Pentagon, but no aid in it for Israel or Ukraine. The new law also bans US embassies from flying pride flags and shuts down the House Office of Diversity and Inclusion. Meanwhile, some far-right Republicans aren’t happy with the spending deal, saying the GOP gave in to the Democrats’ demands and doesn’t make steep enough cuts. Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-GA) filed a motion to vacate House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA), giving flashbacks to Rep. Kevin McCarthy’s (R-CA) ouster. The chaos in the lower chamber is likely to continue into the November 2024 election, as Republicans fight to hang onto their extra-slim House majority.

…Oh and speaking of the GOP, former Republican National Committee chair Ronna McDaniel made her first appearance on NBC as a political analyst for the network yesterday — sparking criticism. NBC veteran anchor Chuck Todd said McDaniel has “credibility issues.”

Who’s saying she’s ready to take it to a different kind of court…

Louisiana State University coach Kim Mulkey. During a press conference this weekend, Mulkey threatened legal action against the Washington Post for putting together what she calls a “hit piece.” The coach said she will take the newspaper to court if they publish it. Mulkey, who is reportedly the highest-paid women's basketball coach in the NCAA this season, has become famous for her vibrant courtside style and the four national titles she's won. She's also no stranger to controversy. NBA star Brittney Griner played for Mulkey at Baylor and alleges Mulkey told her to cover her tattoos and not publicly talk about her sexuality. It’s not clear what’s in the Washington Post report, and the paper has not commented.

Who’s apologizing to Kate Middleton…

Blake Lively.

Who’s taking shots at Drake…

Kendrick Lamar.

What more workplaces should embrace…

“Slump hour.”

theSkimm helps you tackle your to-do lists, whether you're refinancing your loans or choosing a daycare for the first time. We talk to experts and real women to empower you to make decisions faster and with more confidence. Check out our guides to get started.

PS: Your feedback makes a big impact. Let us know what you like, what could be improved, and most importantly, if we helped you get sh*t done. Share your thoughts.