Russia said yesterday it was ready to thwart any threats to the Football World Cup, which kicks off in Moscow next week, as a massive security effort ramps up.
The security “measures are really unprecedented … They are based on our experience with such events and we have also studied international experience,” said Alexei Lavrishchev, head of security operations in the FSB domestic security service.
At least 600,000 international visitors are expected to travel to Russia for the World Cup, which will see matches played in 11 cities from June 14 through July 15.
Security measures have been stepped up in the cities hosting matches, with some business activities limited and the mayor of at least one city urging residents who do not plan to attend the games to go to their country homes.
FIFA, the world football governing body, has said it has full confidence in Russia’s ability to ensure security for the World Cup.
