Syrian President Bashar Assad told Russia Sunday he was saddened by the crash of a Russian military plane on its way to Syria, but the countries' fight against extremists would not be affected, according to The Daily Star.

In a condolence message sent to Russian President Vladimir Putin, Assad said the two countries were partners in the "fight to lay the foundations of stability, security and peace" in Syria.

"Our prayers are with you ... our sorrows and joys are one," Assad told Putin.

"The plane had dear friends who had come to join us and the people of Aleppo in their joy with victory and Christmas feasts." 

The TU-154 carrying 92 people, including dozens of Red Army Choir singers, dancers and orchestra members, crashed into the Black Sea on its way to Syria Sunday, killing everyone on board, Russia said.

Source: MENA