Moscow/New Delhi : In the wake of a devastating cloudburst in Jammu and Kashmir’s Kishtwar district, which has claimed at least 56 lives including two CISF personnel, Russia on Friday expressed deep sorrow and solidarity with India. The Russian Embassy in India issued a heartfelt statement, mourning the loss of life and extending support to the victims.
“Russian Embassy is deeply saddened with disastrous cloudburst in the Kishtwar region of J&K which has claimed dozens of lives. We extend our condolences to the families of those perished and wishes for a speedy recovery to all injured. Our thoughts and solidarity are with the people of J&K in this tragic hour,” the embassy posted on social media.
The natural disaster triggered massive floods and landslides in the region, leaving behind a trail of destruction. Rescue and relief operations are underway, with central and local authorities working tirelessly to reach affected areas.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi responded promptly to the crisis, speaking with Jammu and Kashmir Lt. Governor Manoj Sinha and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah to assess the situation. “Spoke to Jammu and Kashmir LG, Shri Manoj Sinha Ji and CM Shri Omar Abdullah Ji regarding the situation in the wake of the cloudburst and flooding in Kishtwar. Authorities are working on the ground to assist those affected,” PM Modi posted on X (formerly Twitter).
As the nation grapples with the aftermath of the tragedy, India also marked its 79th Independence Day, drawing warm wishes from global leaders.
Russian President Vladimir Putin, in a message addressed to President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Modi, praised India’s remarkable development and growing international stature.
“India has achieved widely recognised success in socio-economic, scientific, technical, and other fields. Your country enjoys well-deserved respect on the global stage and actively contributes to addressing key issues on the international agenda,” read the Russian leader’s message.
Putin reaffirmed Russia’s commitment to strengthening its “special, privileged strategic partnership” with India, expressing confidence in expanding bilateral cooperation in areas of mutual interest. “This aligns fully with the interests of our friendly peoples and supports the strengthening of security and stability both regionally and globally,” he said.
In addition to Russia, Bhutan’s Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay also extended heartfelt greetings on the occasion. Celebrating the enduring friendship between the two nations, he conveyed wishes for peace, prosperity, and continued progress for India.
The day was marked by a blend of somber reflection over the tragedy in Jammu and Kashmir and international recognition of India’s continued rise on the world stage, underscoring the nation’s resilience in the face of adversity.
