VATICAN CITY, JAN. 25, 2011 (Zenit.org).- Benedict XVI is firmly condemning the suicide bombing of a busy Moscow airport on Monday that left 35 dead.
The Pope said this in a telegram sent Tuesday to Russia’s President Dmitry Medvedev, which was signed by Cardinal Tarcisio Bertone, the Pope’s secretary of state, on behalf of the Holy Father.
«After receiving the tragic news of the attack,» the text stated, «Benedict XVI expressed deep sorrow and strong condemnation of this serious act of violence, and he desired to express his spiritual closeness and deep condolences to the victims.»
«The Supreme Pontiff assures his fervent prayers for the dead and, asking the Lord for heavenly consolation as they mourn their tragic loss, he send his greetings and blessings, keeping in mind all those who were injured,» the note concluded.
Cardinal Bertone then expressed at the end of the telegram his own spiritual closeness to the nation, and his «deep condolences.»
As yet, no one has claimed responsibility for Monday’s blast, which also wounded at least 168. According to authorities, the bomb was ignited in the arrival hall of Domodedovo airport’s international terminal. The incident wounded at least 168.
