Media reports say 16 people were killed and some 40 injured in the suicide attack, which occurred around 12:45 p.m. local time at the train station.

 

“The Secretary-General calls for the perpetrators of this heinous act to be brought to justice. He stands in solidarity with the Russian Federation in the face of terrorism,” Ban's spokesperson said in a statement.

 

The 15 members of the Security Council, in a statement issued to the press, extended their condolences to the families of the victims and expressed their sympathy to all those injured in this “heinous” act, and to the Russian people and Government.

 

“The members of the Security Council reaffirmed that terrorism in all its forms and manifestations constitutes one of the most serious threats to international peace and security, and that any acts of terrorism are criminal and unjustifiable, regardless of their motivation, wherever, whenever and by whomsoever committed,” said the statement.

 

They also underlined the need to bring perpetrators, organizers, financiers and sponsors of the attack to justice, and urged all States, in accordance with their obligations under international law and relevant Security Council resolutions, to cooperate actively with all relevant authorities in this regard.

 

A wide view of the Security Council in session. UN Photo/Paulo Filgueiras