The Head of the Imperial House of Russia, H.I.H. the Grand Duchess Maria of Russia, and H.I.H. the Heir, Tsesarevich, and Grand Duke George of Russia, are filled with sorrow over the loss of life in the crash of the passenger airliner near Moscow today.

Their Imperial Highnesses pray for the repose of the souls of the passengers and crew who perished in this tragic accident, and express their deepest condolences to the families and friends of all the victims.