Putin calls for unity against 'terrorism' after Paris attacks

Moscow called on Saturday for the international community to unite in its fight against terrorism after a string of attacks in Paris left more than 128 people dead on Friday, AFP reports.

"This tragedy has become another testimony of terrorism's barbarity, which poses a challenge to human civilisation," Russian President Vladimir Putin said in a telegram to French counterpart Francois Hollande, according to the Kremlin. 

"It is clear that the real unification of the international community's efforts is needed for an effective fight against this evil." 

Putin added that Russia was ready to "closely cooperate" with France in its investigation of the attacks. 

Russian Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev echoed his president's response, saying in a statement: "The Paris tragedy requires of us all to unite in the fight against extremism, to bring a strong answer to terrorists' actions."

In the immediate aftermath of the attacks, the Kremlin offered its condolences, condemning the "hateful" string of attacks and "inhuman murders".