Putin offers condolences to Renzi due to earthquake in Italy

Russian President Vladimir Putin has expressed his condolences to Italian Prime Minister Matteo Renzi over the human losses as a result of a devastating earthquake in the country’s central regions, the Kremlin press service reports.

Putin said that "Russia shares the grief of the friendly Italian people" and expressed readiness "to render the necessary assistance in coping with the aftermath of this disaster."

The Russian head of state conveyed words of sympathy and support to the families and friends of those killed and wished a speedy recovery to the injured.

At least 22 people are dead following the major earthquake, which struck central Italy early in the morning on Aug. 24, according to Italian media. More than 100 are reported missing, RBTH reports.