European leaders express solidarity with Lebanon after massive blast

LONDON

Europe-wide reactions flowed in Tuesday following a massive explosion that rocked the Lebanese capital Beirut, which has killed at least 30 people and injured more than 2,500 others.

EU’s foreign policy chief Josep Borrell expressed the bloc’s support with Lebanon on Twitter.

"The European Union expresses its full solidarity and full support for the families of the victims, the Lebanese people and authorities following the violent explosions that hit Beirut on this day," Borrell wrote.

EU Council President Charles Michel also said on Twitter that his “thoughts are with the people of Lebanon and with the families of the victims of the tragic Beirut blast.”

“The EU stands ready to provide assistance and support. Stay strong.”

Russian President Vladimir Putin sent a telegram to his Lebanese counterpart Michel Aoun to offer his condolences.

"Russia shares the grief of the Lebanese people. I ask you to convey my words of sympathy and support to the families and friends of the victims, as well as my wishes for a speedy recovery to all those affected," Putin said in the telegram.

French President Emmanuel Macron expressed his "fraternal solidarity with the Lebanese after the explosion which caused so many victims and damage this evening in Beirut.”

“France stands alongside Lebanon. Always. French aid and resources are being delivered to the site," he wrote on Twitter.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson said “the pictures and videos from Beirut tonight are shocking.”

He wrote on Twitter: “All of my thoughts and prayers are with those caught up in this terrible incident. The UK is ready to provide support in any way we can, including to those British nationals affected.”

British Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab said on Twitter that his “thoughts and prayers are with those affected by the devastating explosion in Beirut today” and “the UK stands in solidarity with the people of Lebanon.”

Italian Foreign Minister Luigi Di Maio tweeted: “Italy is close to its Lebanese friends in this tragic moment."

"Our thoughts go to the families of the victims, to whom we express our deep condolences, and to people wounded, to whom we send our best wishes of a swift recovery.”

A fire at a warehouse with explosives at the Port of Beirut led to massive blasts causing widespread damage.