U.S. stands with Russian people in their fight against terrorism

The White House condemned the terrorist suicide bombing on a commuter train in southern Russia December 5, saying that "no national, ethnic, religious or political cause can justify terrorist acts."

Following is the statement:

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THE WHITE HOUSE
Office of the Press Secretary
December 5, 2003

Statement by the Press Secretary

TERRORIST ACT IN YESSENTUKI, STAVROPOL REGION, RUSSIA ON DECEMBER 5

The United States strongly condemns this terrorist act and all acts of terrorism. We extend our condolences to the families of the victims and hope for a full and speedy recovery for those injured. No national, ethnic, religious or political cause can justify terrorist acts. We stand with the Russian people in their fight against terrorism.

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(Distributed by the Bureau of International Information Programs, U.S. Department of State. Web site: http://usinfo.state.gov)