Russia's Muslims celebrated the religious holiday of Kurban Bayram, or Eid al-Adha, on Tuesday. Tens of thousands of worshippers congregated at Moscow's Cathedral Mosque for prayers on the "Festival of Sacrifice," which celebrates the willingness of Ibrahim to sacrifice his son on a command from God.
Russian President Vladimir Putin released a statement congratulating Muslims on the holiday.
“Kurban Bayram promotes kindness and justice, mercy and piety, and a careful and warm-hearted attitude towards others," Putin said.
"It is important that the true values of Islam continue to serve as the foundation of the spiritual life of the Russian Muslim community," he added.
