Global Leaders Unite in Grief Over Pahalgam Massacre

SRINAGAR: World leaders from across continents voiced strong condemnation and heartfelt sorrow on Tuesday following the appalling terrorist strike in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, which claimed the lives of 28 innocent civilians, primarily tourists.

Former U.S. President Donald Trump, U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance, Russian President Vladimir Putin, Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, and several ambassadors representing Israel, Ukraine, Russia, and the European Union expressed solidarity with India in the wake of the tragedy.

Trump, in a message posted on Truth Social, denounced the assault, calling it “deeply alarming news from Kashmir.” He added, “The United States firmly stands beside India in its battle against terrorism. We mourn those who lost their lives and wish a swift recovery to the wounded. Prime Minister Modi and the resilient people of India have our unwavering support and heartfelt condolences. We grieve with you.”

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The incident coincided with Vice President Vance’s inaugural trip to India. He echoed his condolences in a personal post on X, saying, “Usha and I are devastated by the loss of lives in the barbaric attack in Pahalgam. India’s beauty and warmth have touched us deeply over these past days. Our hearts and prayers are with the people as they navigate through this terrible moment.”

Russian President Vladimir Putin, in official messages to Indian President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, condemned the terror strike in the harshest terms, referring to it as an “inhuman act” with no justification. “We convey our profound sympathies for the civilians, including international citizens, who fell victim to this reprehensible assault. Such cruelty cannot be excused, and we trust those responsible will face just consequences,” he wrote.

I would like to reiterate the readiness for further strengthening of cooperation with the Indian partners in the fight against all forms and manifestations of terrorism.

— Russia in India 🇷🇺 (@RusEmbIndia) April 22, 2025

Putin reaffirmed Russia’s intent to deepen its collaboration with India in countering terrorism. He concluded his note by sending wishes for the swift recovery of the injured and strength to grieving families.

Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman expressed his condolences directly to PM Modi during the latter’s official visit to the Kingdom. “The leaders reviewed the tragic Pahalgam attack and jointly condemned the act of terror against innocent civilians,” said Suhel Ajaz Khan, India’s Ambassador to Saudi Arabia, during a press interaction in Jeddah.

The Crown Prince also reportedly extended offers of assistance, underlining the expanding strategic and security partnership between India and Saudi Arabia.

Diplomatic missions across New Delhi also voiced their anguish. Russian Ambassador Denis Alipov, in a post on X, remarked, “Heartfelt condolences to the people and leadership of India over the vile terror strike on visiting tourists in Pahalgam. Russia stands in resolute support of India.”

Israeli Ambassador Reuven Azar described the act as “sickening,” expressing both sorrow and firm backing for India’s security forces battling terrorism. Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar added, “Our solidarity is with India. We mourn alongside the bereaved and denounce the brutal violence.”

Guy Nir, spokesperson of the Israeli embassy in India, posted, “Our hearts go out to the families of those lost. This kind of savagery has no place in the modern world. Israel stands shoulder-to-shoulder with India in this hour.”

Ukraine’s mission in India condemned the incident, emphasizing its own experience with terrorism and expressing empathy. “We know the agony of losing lives to senseless violence. The murder of innocents is unbearable. The masterminds must be brought to justice,” the embassy stated.

European Union Ambassador Hervé Delphin joined the global outcry, calling the attack “disgraceful and shocking.” He said the EU stands united with India against all expressions of terrorism and extended condolences and healing wishes to all affected.

As messages of sympathy poured in from across the globe, India found itself not alone in mourning. The overwhelming international response underscored a shared resolve to confront and defeat terrorism in all its manifestations.