NEW YORK - The World Jewish Congress today expressed its concern at an explosion targeting the Head of the Jewish community of Tatarstan and of Kazan, Russia, Mr. Mikhail Skoblionok.
It is understood that Mr. Skoblionok has sustained injuries after opening a package delivered to his business, which subsequently exploded. Mr. Skoblionok is currently undergoing treatment at a hospital in the area. It is not yet clear whether the attack was criminally motivated, or a hate crime.
WJC CEO and Executive Vice President Robert Singer said: “I was very worried to hear about today’s explosion targeting the head of the Jewish community in Kazan, Tatarstan. I wish to extend my best wishes to Mr. Skoblionk and his family and hope for a speedy recovery. I have known Mr. Skoblionok for more than 25 years, and have seen that the rebirth and well-being of his community was, and is, to a large extent due to his personal involvement. We fully trust that the local authorities are doing all in their power to investigate and ensure that the perpetrators behind this evil and sickening act are brought to justice as soon as possible.”