President Reuven Rivlin today (Tuesday, 20 December 2016) sent a letter of condolence to Russian President Vladimir Putin following the assassination of Russia’s ambassador to Turkey, Andrey Karlov. 

President Rivlin wrote, “I write to express my shock and sadness to you and all the Russian people following the assassination of Ambassador Andrey Karlov. 

“This attack on an Ambassador is an assault on our very ability to find diplomatic paths and channels towards solutions to conflicts. However, we will remain strong in our resolve and the international community has the strength to overcome. 

“Your Excellency, all life is sacred, and terror is terror wherever it strikes and whoever is the target. Israel stands together with Russia in condemning this brutal attack, and in expressing our hope for an end to all hatred and extremism.” 

He concluded, “Please accept once again my condolences and kindly convey my heartfelt sympathies to Ambassador Karlov's family at this terrible time.”