European leaders express solidarity with Spain after deadly train collision

By Melike Pala

BRUSSELS (AA) - European leaders have expressed solidarity with Spain following a collision between two high-speed trains in the province of Toledo on Wednesday, which killed at least 46 people, according to Spanish media reports.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said she was devastated by the news, extending condolences to the victims’ families and loved ones.

"Today, Europe mourns with you," she said in a post on US social media platform X.

European Council President Antonio Costa said he had received the news with "deep consternation."

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni said her government stood with Spain and the Spanish people during the difficult times.

French President Emmanuel Macron expressed France's solidarity with Spain, saying his thoughts were with the victims, their families, the injured and rescue workers.

Belgian Foreign Minister Maxime Prevot said he was deeply shaken by the accident, extending condolences to the victims' families and support to the injured and their loved ones.

He added that Spain could count on Belgium's full solidarity.

Lithuanian President Gitanas Nauseda conveyed his condolences to Spanish King Felipe VI and Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez, wishing the injured a swift and full recovery.

Romanian Foreign Minister Dan Neculaescu also expressed sadness over the collision and offered condolences to the victims' families, while wishing those injured a speedy recovery.

He added that Romania's diplomatic and consular missions were in close contact with Spanish authorities and ready to provide assistance.

Meanwhile, the death toll from the collision has risen to 46, Spanish media reported, citing Civil Protection sources.

The cause of the accident remains under investigation, while the number of injured has not yet been confirmed.