UN council condemns killing of Russian diplomats in Iraq

The UN Security Council condemned on Thursday the killing of four Russian envoys in Iraq, avowing that no cause can justify acts of terror.

"The Security Council is appalled by the horrific death of members of the Russian Diplomatic mission in Iraq who had been kidnapped by a terrorist group and later ruthlessly and in cold blood executed by their captors," the 15-Member body said through a statement read out by its President for June, Ambassador Ellen Margrethe Loj of Denmark.

"The Security Council in strongest possible terms condemns this crime committed by the terrorists," the statement said.

The Council also conveyed its deepest sympathy and condolences to the families of the deceased, and the people and government of Russia.

In addition, it confirmed that no cause could justify such acts of terror, and urged all states to cooperate actively in efforts to find and bring to justice the perpetrators, organizers and sponsors of such acts.

Furthermore, the Council underlined the importance of continuing the efforts of the government of Iraq in exercising its responsibility in providing protection to the diplomatic community, UN staff and other foreign civilian personnel working in Iraq.

Source: Xinhua