Statement by President Jean-Claude Juncker to the President of the Russian Federation

25 December, Jean-Claude Juncker, President of the European Commission, issued the following statement addressed to the President of the Russian Federation:

"It is with deep sadness that I have learnt of the loss of so many people in today's airplane crash over the Black Sea.

On this holy day, my thoughts are with the victims, their families and loved ones. In my personal name and in that of the European Commission, I would like to express to you - and through you to the entire nation - my heartfelt condolences."