UN, US condemn terror attack on Turkish military

Washington, Feb 18: The United Nations and the US have condemned the terror attack on Turkish military in Ankara, with America reaffirming solidarity with its NATO partner and pledging cooperation in the fight against terrorism.

Describing the attack as a "senseless tragedy", US Defence Secretary Ashton Carter strongly condemned this "cowardly attack" on Turkish military last night in which at least 28 people were killed and 61 wounded.

"We stand with our Turkish allies in the face of this horrific act, which only strengthens our resolve to deepen our ongoing cooperation in the fight against terrorism," Carter said.

"We stand together with Turkey, a NATO Ally, a strong partner, and a valued member of the Counter-ISIL coalition, in the face of this attack and pledge our ongoing cooperation and support in the fight against terrorism," said Ned Price, the spokesman of National Security Council, the White House.

UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon condemned the blast, expressing hope that the perpetrators of the terrorist attack will be swiftly brought to justice. "The United Nations stands in solidarity with the people and the Government of Turkey at this tragic time," he said.

The House Majority Leader Kevin McCarthy said the terrorist attack at the heart of Turkey's capital "is a reminder that terrorists won't stop until they are stopped". "America reaffirms its support for our Turkish allies during this terrible time. Only constant vigilance and a strong response to global terrorism can put an end to these senseless murders," he said.

"There is simply no justification for this vicious act. Today—and every day—the United States stands in solidarity with the Turkish people, who are on the frontlines of the war against violent extremism," said Paul Ryan, Speaker of the US House of Representatives.

At least 28 people were killed and 61 wounded by the car bombing in the heart of capital Ankara last night, the latest in a string of attacks to shake the country.

PTI