Russian Embassy in DC 'grateful' to US for support after deadly plane crash

WASHINGTON

The Russian Embassy in Washington, D.C. expressed gratitude Thursday to the US for support after a deadly mid-air collision.

The embassy sent condolences to the families of the victims who were killed Wednesday in a crash near Reagan Washington National Airport after a military helicopter collided with a passenger plane with 64 people onboard.

"We were especially saddened to learn from the White House that there were Russian citizens on board the airliner.

"We are grateful to the American authorities, with whom we are in constant contact, for the words of support expressed to the families of the victims and their readiness to help with the transfer of the remains to their homeland," the embassy said on Telegram.

The embassy said it looks forward to receiving information from the State Department on the deceased Russian nationals.

President Donald Trump said Thursday that "no one survived" after the aircraft crashed into the Potomac River.

Trump said officials do not yet know what led to the crash of American Airlines Flight 5342 and an Army Black Hawk helicopter near the airport, but said, "We have some very strong opinions and ideas."