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For Immediate Release
Office of the Press Secretary
September 12, 2004

President Condemns Terrorism in Russia
President's Remarks to the Press Pool
Russian Embassy
Washington, D.C.

12:49 P.M. EDT

THE PRESIDENT: Mr. Ambassador, thank you for receiving Laura and me. I'm here to express my country's heart-felt sympathies for the victims and the families who suffered at the hands of the evil terrorists. The United States stands side-by-side with Russia as we fight off terrorism, as we stand shoulder-to-shoulder to make the world a more peaceful place and a free place.

The atrocities that took place in the school were beyond comprehension. Many in America, and I know many in Russia, simply cannot conceive the hearts of a person that would mow down innocent children. And the killers, once again, reminded us -- remind us of the duties we have as free people to work in concert, to work in unity, to make this world a better place.

And so Mr. Ambassador, I'm honored. Please pass on my very best wishes to President Vladimir Putin, a man who I admire. I talked with Vladimir right after the incident. We had a very good discussion about the need for us to continue to work together. I pledged our government would continue to work with the Russian government and the Russian people.

And may God bless the people of Russia and may God bless those who suffer. Thank you all very much.

END 12:51 P.M. EDT