US president Barack Obama today condemned suicide bombings in Moscow that killed at least 37 people and injured 65 on packed metro trains.
"The American people stand united with the people of Russia in opposition to violent extremism and heinous terrorist attacks that demonstrate such disregard for human life, and we condemn these outrageous acts," Mr Obama said in a statement.
The White House issued the statement during an unannounced Obama visit to Afghanistan in the midst of an eight-year war with Islamic militants including al-Qaeda, the militant network blamed for the September 11th, 2001, attacks on New York and Washington.
"I send my deepest condolences to the people of Russia after the terrible loss of life and injuries resulting from the bombings on the Moscow metro," the president said.
"My thoughts and prayers go out to those who lost loved ones, and I wish all who sustained injuries a successful recovery."
Minister for Foreign Affairs Micheál Martin said he was "horrified at the appalling loss of life" in this morning's bombings.
"I condemn those responsible for this gratuitous act of terrorism on innocent people on their way to work. Nothing can justify such an outrageous attack, which has taken the lives of so many and left scores injured," he said.
"On behalf of the Government and people of Ireland, I send heartfelt sympathy to the bereaved and offer my best wishes for a swift recovery to the injured."