Russia and the world reacts to Morocco Earthquake

North African nation, Morocco is grappling with the aftermath of a catastrophic earthquake that has claimed the lives of at least 820 people, with over 672 individuals reported as injured, according to the Moroccan Interior Ministry.

The disaster has prompted an outpouring of international support and expressions of solidarity.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy conveyed his condolences via social media, extending Ukraine’s unwavering support to Morocco during this trying period.

He stated,

“Our deepest condolences to HM King Mohammed VI and all Moroccans for the lives lost in the horrible earthquake in the Marrakesh region. I wish those injured a fast recovery. Ukraine stands in solidarity with Morocco during this tragic time.”

As the number of injured individuals continues to rise, there is an urgent call for blood donations.

Dr. Hesham Kharmoudi, speaking from Marrakesh, emphasized the critical need for blood bags, asserting that medical personnel and departments are ready to respond but are facing a shortage.

The appeal for blood donations aims to address this pressing issue.

In a display of international camaraderie, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan pledged support to Morocco, labeling the earthquake as “devastating.”

He affirmed, “We will support our Moroccan brothers in every way in this difficult hour.”

Russian President Vladimir Putin expressed his condolences to Morocco’s King Mohammed VI, highlighting the deep connection between the two nations.

Putin stated,

“In Russia, we share the pain and the mourning of the friendly Moroccan people,” while offering his sincere condolences for the tragic consequences of the devastating earthquake.

United States’ President, Joe Biden also sent a message to Morocco expressing his sympathy with the African nation.

“I am deeply saddened by the loss of life and devastation caused by the earthquake in Morocco,” he said in a statement.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with all those impacted by this terrible hardship.”

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez expressed his sympathies and support, describing the earthquake as “terrible” and assuring that “Spain is with the victims of this tragedy and its families.”

French President Emmanuel Macron conveyed his own devastation, expressing readiness to provide assistance for relief efforts: “We are all devastated after the terrible earthquake in Morocco. France stands ready to help with first aid.”

Israel also announced plans to send a substantial team to Morocco, dedicated to rescue and first aid operations for earthquake victims. The Israeli government emphasized that no Israeli casualties were recorded among tourists in Morocco.

The earthquake had far-reaching consequences, impacting connectivity in Marrakesh due to power cuts caused by the seismic activity, according to global internet monitor NetBlocks.

Noureddine Bazine, a resident and journalist in Marrakesh, recounted the sudden and catastrophic nature of the earthquake.

He noted that the highest casualty count was reported in the al-Haouz region and expressed concern that the death toll could rise further.

Official reports indicate that at least 632 people have lost their lives, with 329 individuals sustaining injuries.

The head of the National Institute of Geophysics in Morocco has described this earthquake as the most powerful in a century, with its epicenter located in the al-Haouz region.

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, attending the G20 summit in India, also offered condolences and sympathy, acknowledging the gravity of the situation.

Mohamed, a Marrakesh resident, provided a harrowing firsthand account of the earthquake’s impact, detailing the terrifying moments when buildings shook violently and the ensuing chaos.

He underscored that the suburbs of Marrakesh and surrounding rural areas were particularly affected.