Jakarta. Russian President Vladimir Putin has expressed deep sorrow over the catastrophic flooding and landslides in Sumatra that killed at least 316 people.

Sumatra is witnessing one of, if not the most, fatal flooding and landslides triggered by cyclone-driven torrential rain over the past week. The Russian Foreign Ministry announced Sunday that Putin had written a condolence message to his Indonesian counterpart Prabowo Subianto.

“Esteemed Mr. President, please accept my deepest condolences over the numerous human casualties and the widespread destruction caused by the flooding in the northern part of Sumatra Island,” Putin said.

“In Russia, we share the grief of those who have lost their loved ones as a result of this natural disaster, and we hope for a swift return to normal and peaceful life in the affected regions,” he said.

Local authorities reported on Sunday that 289 people remained missing. Fifty five people are unaccounted for in Aceh, while 147 others are still missing in North Sumatra. Rescuers still can’t find 87 people in West Sumatra. 

Speaking to reporters on Friday night, Prabowo said he would “continue to monitor the situation”, including on whether he would declare a national emergency status. The government has begun deploying aid to the disaster-hit areas.

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