Russian President Vladimir Putin extended heartfelt condolences to President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi following the deadly militant attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, which killed more than 20 people. Putin condemned the attack, calling it “a brutal crime with no justification”.
“Esteemed Mrs. President, Esteemed Mr. Prime Minister, Kindly accept the sincere condolences over the tragic consequences of the terrorist attack in Pahalgam whose victims were civilians – citizens of various countries,” President Putin wrote. “This brutal crime has no justification whatsoever.”
US President Trump called it “disturbing”, adding that the US stands with India against terrorism. More than 20 people, including two foreigners, were reportedly dead after militants opened fire at tourists on Tuesday afternoon in Pahalgam’s Baisaran meadow.
Trump wrote on Truth Social, “Deeply disturbing news out of Kashmir. The United States stands strong with India against Terrorism. We pray for the souls of those lost, and for the recovery of the injured. Prime Minister Modi, and the incredible people of India, have our full support and deepest sympathies. Our hearts are with you all!”
In one of the deadliest attacks on civilians in recent years, more than 20 tourists were killed on Monday in a militant strike in the Baisaran meadow area near the tourist hotspot of Pahalgam in south Kashmir’s Anantnag district.
The victims were visiting the picturesque hill station when heavily armed gunmen opened indiscriminate fire around 4pm.
The attack occurred when the tourists were gathered near a makeshift resting area on the scenic trail. Panic ensued as gunshots rang out, with many trying to flee while others were caught in the ambush. At least a dozen others were injured and rushed to nearby hospitals.
Armed forces cordoned off the area and launched a massive manhunt, scouring the surrounding forested terrain for the assailants.
“This is a cowardly act aimed at disturbing the fragile peace that is returning to the Valley,” said DGP R R Swain. He added that preliminary investigations suggest a well-planned strike with possible local support.
Prime Minister of India Narendra Modi condemned the attack saying, “The nation mourns the loss of innocent lives. The perpetrators will not be spared.”
GoI Home Minister Amit Shah visited Srinagar and review the security arrangements.
The incident comes amid a season of increased tourism in Kashmir, with over 50,000 tourists reported to have visited Pahalgam this month alone. Authorities fear the attack could deal a severe blow to the Valley’s tourism-driven economy.
Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha called it a “barbaric” attack and announced an ex-gratia of Rs 10 lakh for the families of the deceased. Security has been tightened across south Kashmir, and tourist movement has been temporarily suspended in vulnerable zones.
Local political leaders, including chief ministers Omar Abdullah and Mehbooba Mufti, condemned the attack, stating that violence has no place in the land known for its hospitality and natural beauty.
