Russia condemns deadly attack in Indian-controlled Kashmir

Moscow strongly condemns the deadly militant attack in Indian-controlled disputed region of Jammu and Kashmir that claimed lives of 17 soldiers, the Russian Foreign Ministry said on Monday.

"We strongly condemn the terrorist attack on an Indian military base located beside the town of Uri in the Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir, which was carried out in the early hours of September 18," the ministry said in a statement, "Seventeen servicemen were killed and 30 others were injured. We express deep condolences to the families and relatives of the people killed and wish a speedy recovery to the injured."

At least 17 Indian troopers were killed and more than 20 others wounded in a suicide attack on Sunday on an Indian military base near the Line of Control dividing Kashmir, reports said, adding that four militants, believed to have carried out the attack, were also killed in a retaliatory assault inside the base.

The attack came at a time when Indian-controlled Kashmir is grappling with violent unrest. The region has been witnessing the largest protests in recent years since July 8, following the killing of a militant commander in a gunfight with Indian troops. Endit