Biden, US First Lady express condolences over helicopter crash in Brovary

KYIV. Jan 19 (Interfax-Ukraine) – U.S. President Joseph Biden and First Lady Jill Biden express their condolences to the families of those killed in the helicopter crash in Ukraine on Wednesday morning, according to the White House website.

"Jill and I send our deepest condolences to the families of all those killed in the tragic helicopter crash in Ukraine this morning, including Minister of Internal Affairs Denys Monastyrskyy and other senior Ukrainian government officials. Our hearts are also with the dozens of civilians who were killed or injured, including precious children, and their families. We grieve with all those who are mourning this heartbreaking tragedy," the head of state said in a statement.

The U.S. President said Monastyrskyy and his team were deeply involved in the preservation of Ukraine’s democracy – both its defense against Russian aggression, and the vital work of reforms to strengthen Ukraine’s institutions through this war and into the future.

"A reformer and patriot, Mr. Monastyrskyy championed the will of the Ukrainian people. We will continue to honor that legacy through efforts to strengthen Ukraine’s institutions, and in our unfailing partnership with the people of Ukraine to keep the flame of freedom bright. Today, we are praying for healing for the wounded and comfort for those who have lost loved ones," he said.

Biden also said the United States will stand with the people of Ukraine in the face of this tragedy, and for as long as it takes.