The Secretary General of the Council of Europe, Thorbjørn Jagland, sent a letter to the President of the Russian Federation, Vladimir Putin, today, following deadly attacks in the Saint-Petersburg metro on 3 April.

"I was shocked and greatly saddened by the news of the deadly attack perpetrated in the Saint Petersburg metro yesterday. This act of terror and its repercussions will be keenly felt throughout Russia and the whole of Europe. In this tragic hour, our thoughts and compassion are with the victims and indeed their families."

"In my capacity as Secretary General, allow me to convey a message of solidarity on behalf of the Council of Europe to all those affected and to the people of the Russian Federation."

• Letter to Vladimir Putin