Pope Francis sends condolences to the Russian people

(Vatican Radio) Pope Francis has sent a telegramme of condolences to the Russian President and to the  people following the crash of Russian Airbus A321 in Egypt in which 224 people were killed.

Please find below the text of the telegramme sent by Vatican Secretary of State, Cardinal Pietro Parolin, on behalf of the Pope.

His Excellency Vladimir Putin
President of the Russian Federation

Having learned with sadness of the tragic crash of the Russian airline in the Sinai Peninsula, His Holiness Pope Francis conveys his condolences to you and the Russian people.  He offers the assurance of his prayers for all who have died and for those who mourn their loss.  Upon the nation and all involved in the recovery efforts His Holiness invokes the strength and peace of Almighty God.    
                            
Cardinal Pietro Parolin
Secretary of State