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Responding to journalists’ questions, the Director “ad interim” of the Holy See Press Office, affirmed the following:
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The Pope Prays - Vatican Media Copyright
Pope Expresses Closeness, Prayers, Following Russian Submarine Fire
Director of the Holy See Press Office, Alessandro Gisotti, Issues Statement
Pope Francis has sent his heartfelt condolences following the fire of a Russian submarine.
In a brief statement from Alessandro Gisotti, Director of the Holy See Press Office, July 3, 2019, he noted the pope «was informed of the tragedy,»referring to the death of 14 Russian sailors in the July 2 submarine fire.
An investigation is being conducted by President Vladimir Putin, to understand the causes of the mysterious fire of the submarine which was in the Russian Arctic.
«He expresses,» the statement added, «his condolences and closeness to the families of the victims and to those who have been affected by this disaster.»
Below is the statement from Alessandro Gisotti:
“The Holy Father was informed of the tragedy of the Russian submarine. He expresses his sympathy and closeness to the victims’ families and to all those that were affected by this disaster.”