On 26 October, after peace negotiations with the terrorists had failed, Russian security forces launched an operation to relieve the siege. The building soon came under federal control and most of the hostages were liberated. The terrorists, who had threatened to immediately blow up the building in case of a seizure attempt, were caught off-guard because of a special gas used by the troops. Finally, all the terrorists were eliminated. However, the terrorist attack claimed the lives of 130 hostages, with a large number dying during the rescue operation. It still remains disputable as to whether using knock-out gas was a justified measure.

Today, people are mourning for the victims of this tragedy. At 10am, 130 white balloons were released as a symbol of eternal memory. The names of the killed were read out during a minute’s silence. The religious memorial service was held at noon in the Dubrovka Theater Center. Later today, flowers will be laid on the memorial plaque of the theater building, and a requiem concert will be performed.