US condemns 'horrific' Turkey bombings and 'depravity' of attackers
Two suicide bombers likely carried out the twin explosions near Ankara's main train station
WASHINGTON (AFP) - The White House condemned what it called a "horrific terrorist" attack in the Turkish capital Ankara on Saturday that killed at least 86 people and wounded nearly 200.
"The fact that this attack occurred ahead of a planned rally for peace underscores the depravity of those behind it and serves as another reminder of the need to confront shared security challenges in the region," National Security Council spokesman Ned Price said in a statement.
Two suicide bombers likely carried out the twin explosions near Ankara s main train station, Turkish Prime Minister Ahmet Davutoglu said, where groups of leftist and pro-Kurdish activists had gathered for the anti-government peace rally.
The attack ratcheted up tensions ahead of Turkey s November 1 snap elections which were already soaring amid the government s offensive on Kurdish militants.
"The United States will continue to stand side-by-side with the Turkish government and people as together we take on the scourge of terrorism," added Price, offering condolences to the victims and their families.
"Far from deterring these efforts, such horrific acts of violence will only strengthen our resolve."
The State Department branded the attack "heinous."
"In light of the ongoing violence in Turkey and the region, it is particularly important at this time that all Turkish citizens recommit to peace and stand together against terror," said spokesman John Kirby.
