Prime Minister Vladimir Putin sent a telegram of condolences to Prime Minister of Spain Jose Rodriguez Zapatero in connection with the plane crash at Madrid

Prime Minister Vladimir Putin sent a telegram of condolences to Prime Minister of Spain Jose Rodriguez Zapatero in connection with the plane crash at Madrid airport, which caused heavy casualties.

The telegram said, in part:

"I am shocked at the terrible catastrophe which took place at Madrid airport. On behalf of the Government of the Russian Federation, I want to offer my sincere sympathy to the bereaved families and express support for the friendly Spanish nation."