Türkiye conveys condolences to Russia over deadly Moscow concert attack

By Gozde Bayar and Necva Tastan

ANKARA / ISTANBUL (AA) – Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Saturday expressed deep sorrow and condolences for a deadly terrorist attack in Moscow to his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin.

In a phone call with Russian President Vladimir Putin, Erdogan expressed his condolences to the Russian people for the attack that killed at least 133 people, according to a statement issued by the Turkish Communications Directorate.

The Turkish president condemned the “heinous terrorist attack targeting innocent people” in the “strongest way," the statement added.

Türkiye is ready to develop cooperation with Russia in combating terrorism, with the understanding of fighting all kinds of terrorism without discrimination, it added.

Gunmen opened fire at concertgoers late Friday, killing at least 133 people and injuring 145 others. The attack took place as the rock band Picnic was about to perform at the Crocus City Hall just west of Moscow.

Russian authorities have arrested 11 people in connection with the attack, including four directly involved, according to the Federal Security Service.