Putin expresses condolences over explosions in Tianjin

Russian President Vladimir Putin has expressed condolences to Chinese President Xi Jinping over the massive blasts in China's port of Tianjin, the Kremlin press service said Thursday.

"Putin conveyed his compassion and support to the relatives and friends of those who died in the accident and wished soonest recovery to those injured in the explosions," the press service said.

Huge explosions took place late Wednesday night at a warehouse for dangerous materials in Tianjin, which has killed at least 50 people, including 12 firefighters, and more than 700 people have been hospitalized, according to the authorities.

Xi and Premier Li Keqiang have urged all-out efforts to save the injured and minimize casualties.