Russia condemns Iraq bombings

Russia's Foreign Ministry condemned a string of terrorist attacks that killed at least 66 people and injured 230 across Iraq on Monday. "We resolutely condemn these bloody extremist attacks," the ministry said. "Nothing can justify them, whatever motives guided their organizers and perpetrators." The most devastating explosion took place in the city of Al-Kut 160 km (100 miles) southeast of the capital, Baghdad. At least 40 people were killed and 65 injured. The ministry expressed condolences to the victims' relatives. UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon called on Iraqis not to enter a new cycle of bloodshed. "The Secretary-General appeals to the people of Iraq to reject these attempts to incite further violence in the country," his spokesperson said in a statement, adding that it is "particularly heinous" that it took place during the holy month of Ramadan.