Comment of the Russian Foreign Ministry spokesman A.K. Lukashevich on the act of terrorism against the politico-military leadership of Syria

The massive act of terrorism against the politico-military leadership of Syria stroke Damascus on 18 July. According to the received information, among the victims of the suicide-bomber, who detonated himself in the building of the National Security Service, are the Deputy Chairman of the Council of Ministers, the Minister of Defence of the SAR D. Rajiha, his deputy – close relative of the President of the country, A. Shawkat, the former Minister of Defence H. Turkmani. They were well known in Russia for the substantial contribution to the development of relations between Russia and Syria. Information on other victims and injured people is being clarified.

We express the deepest sympathy to the Syrian people and government, to families and friends of all deceased in a villainous crime. We wish the soonest recovery to all injured.

Moscow strongly condemns terrorism of all kinds. We expect the organisers of the terrorist act in Damascus to be revealed and deservedly punished. We see another attempt of further destabilisation of the situation in Syria. We are convinced that the authorities and people of this country, all its patriots facing hard times will show the necessary political will and aspiration for the soonest peaceful settlement of the internal crisis.

18 July 2012