Ban condemns deadly terrorist attacks in Grozny

United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon today strongly condemned last night’s terrorist attacks in Grozny, Russia, reiterating that there can be no justification for acts of terror.

According to media reports, a gun battle between Islamic militants and Government forces overnight on Thursday left as many as 19 people dead.

In a statement issued by the UN chief’s spokesperson, Mr. Ban sent his deepest sympathies to the families of the victims of these “heinous acts.”

The Secretary-General also expressed condolences to the Government and people of the Russian Federation.

“He wishes a speedy recovery to those injured,” Mr. Ban’s spokesperson said.