The telegram of condolences sent by Vladimir Putin to French President Francois Hollande reads, in part:

“I would like to express our deepest condolences to you personally and to the people of France in connection with the death of a large number of peaceful citizens in an unprecedented series of terrorist acts in Paris.

This tragedy is additional proof of the barbaric nature of terrorism that is posing a challenge to human civilisation. It is obvious that to counter this evil effectively the entire international community needs to truly join efforts.

I would like to confirm the readiness of the Russian side to closely cooperate with our French partners in investigating the crime committed in Paris. I expect both the originators and perpetrators to be justly punished.

In this hour of trial for France I would like you to convey our sincere sympathy and support to the families and friends of the victims and our wishes of a speedy recovery to all those who suffered at the hands of the extremists.”