The following is the telegram of condolences sent on behalf of the Holy Father by Cardinal Secretary of State Pietro Parolin to the president of the Russian Federation, Vladimir V. Putin, following the assassination in Ankara, Turkey yesterday of the Russian ambassador to the country, Andrei Karlov.

“His Holiness Pope Francis was saddened to learn of the violent attack in Ankara, which resulted in the death of Ambassador Andrei Karlov. His Holiness sends condolences to all who mourn his loss, and in a special way to the members of Ambassador Karlov’s family. In commending his soul to Almighty God, Pope Francis assures you and all the people of the Russian Federation of his prayers and spiritual solidarity at this time”.