Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin labeled those behind the country's latest terrorist attack as "soulless" Thursday and appealed for a "common duty" to fight them.

A car bomb attack in the central market of Russia's North Caucasus city of Vladikavkaz killed at least 15 people.

"The crimes like the one that was committed in the North Caucasus today are aimed at sowing enmity between our citizens. We have no right to allow this," Putin was quoted by the Interfax news agency as saying.

He called the terrorists "soulless and heartless" people, who held nothing sacred. "Our common duty is to fight these crimes and these criminals," the prime minister said.

He noted the crime was committed on the holy day for Muslims - Uraza Bairam - which is traditionally associated with peace and accord.

He expressed condolences to the families of the dead and those injured, saying he was sure Russia's Muslims would make a decisive contribution to combating extremism.

Putin promised to punish all those guilty.

"I am sure the law enforcement forces will do everything to find the assailants. Now we are deciding on the money support to the affected and the families of the dead," Putin said.

The blast on early Thursday also left 80 injured. Investigators already have identified the car and its owner. Russia's National Antiterrorist Committee has warned of further possible bomb attacks.