The antiterrorist operation was poorly coordinated, and the question remains open whether many of the deaths were caused by Russian forces’ use of indiscriminate weapons such as tank cannons and flame-throwers.

After this tragedy, the Knowledge Day celebrated in Russia on Sept. 1 became a different day. This tragedy changed the spirit of this day throughout the country.

How come explosives, guns, grenades and munitions were delivered at this school unnoticed and in advance? How come a truck packed with heavily armed, masked, bearded militants could travel so easily through one of the...

Children were killed by the friendly fire.