Obama Condemns "Outrageous" Moscow Attack

By MacKenzie C. Babb Staff Writer

Washington - President Obama strongly condemned the bombing of Moscow's busiest airport, calling the attack an "outrageous act of terrorism against the Russian people."

"I want to express the solidarity of the American people with the Russian people in the aftermath of this premeditated attack against innocent civilians. Michelle and I offer our deepest condolences to the Russian people, who have suffered greatly at the hands of terrorism," Obama said in a statement January 24 delivered by White House spokesman Robert Gibbs.

Russian news sources report at least 35 people were killed and more than 152 wounded in the attack on Domodedovo Airport January 24.

"Our thoughts are with the families of the victims and we are praying for a successful recovery for all of those who were injured," Obama said.

Gibbs added the United States stands ready to provide "any assistance that the government of Russia needs or wants."

Russian President Dmitry Medvedev said the bombing was a terror attack, and according to the RIA Novosti state news agency, law enforcement officials suspect the explosion was caused by a suicide bomber. No one immediately claimed responsibility for the attack

Medvedev called for "every investigative action" to be taken to "quickly collect evidence and ... accomplish the investigation," according to a statement on Medvedev's website. He said he has increased security at airports and other transport hubs across the country.

Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton offered her sympathy and support to Russians "in this moment of sorrow."

"The United States condemns terrorism and all forms of violence against the innocent, wherever it occurs. We stand with the victims of these crimes and we will continue to work with the international community to combat violent extremism that threatens peace-loving people everywhere," she said in a January 24 statement ( http://www.america.gov/st/texttrans-english/2011/January/20110124151034su0.6110607.html ).

Clinton said the United States "remains ready to support the Russian government as it seeks to bring these perpetrators to justice."

ENDS

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