Air India AI171 Crash Sparks Global Mourning: British PM Keir Starmer, Zelensky Among World Leaders Offering Condolences
The Trending People | June 12, 2025 — The tragic Air India Flight AI171 crash near Ahmedabad has drawn strong reactions from leaders across the globe, with many expressing shock, sorrow, and solidarity with India and the families of the victims. The London-bound Boeing 787 Dreamliner, carrying over 240 passengers, including 53 British nationals, crashed shortly after takeoff, triggering an international outpouring of concern.
The crash occurred near the Meghaninagar area, just beyond the perimeter of the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport, where emergency services continue their search and rescue operations.
🇬🇧 British PM Keir Starmer: “Devastating Scenes”
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer was among the first to react to the tragic incident. Posting on X (formerly Twitter), he wrote:
“The scenes emerging of a London-bound plane carrying many British nationals crashing in the Indian city of Ahmedabad are devastating. I am being kept updated as the situation develops, and my thoughts are with the passengers and their families at this deeply distressing time.”
Starmer’s response underscores the gravity of the situation, particularly as many of the passengers were British citizens returning home.
British Defence Secretary David Lammy: "Urgently Working with India"
UK Defence Secretary David Lammy echoed similar sentiments, confirming that the UK is actively collaborating with Indian officials.
“Deeply saddened by news of a devastating plane crash in Ahmedabad, India. My thoughts are with all those affected. The UK is working with local authorities in India to urgently establish the facts and provide support.”
🇬🇧 Priti Patel Urges UK-India Coordination
Conservative MP Priti Patel, who has strong ties to the Indian community in the UK, urged the British government to ensure swift diplomatic coordination.
“My thoughts and prayers are with everyone affected by the plane crash at Ahmedabad and with the emergency services at the scene. As further information comes forward, the Government needs to ensure it is working with Indian authorities to support British families affected.”
🇺🇦 Zelensky Sends Condolences to Modi and India
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky posted a heartfelt message of solidarity:
“Horrible news of a passenger plane crash in India. My deepest condolences to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the entire people of India on this tragic day. Our thoughts are with all victims’ relatives and close ones in India, the UK, Portugal, and Canada.”
He added:
“We share your shock and grief on this tragic day. We all pray for as many lives to be saved as possible and wish a speedy recovery to those injured.”
🇷🇺 Russia’s Ambassador: “Major Catastrophe”
Russia’s Ambassador to India, Denis Alipov, termed the tragedy a “major catastrophe.”
“Heartbreaking news is coming from Ahmedabad. My heartfelt sympathy to the families and near ones of the victims and to all Indian people and the Government of India over this tragic major catastrophe!”
His comments reflect the deep and longstanding strategic ties between India and Russia, with both nations often cooperating on aviation safety, defense, and crisis response.
Passengers from Across the Globe
According to preliminary manifests, Air India’s Flight AI171 included passengers from:
- India (169)
- United Kingdom (53)
- Portugal
- Canada
- UAE and Others (unconfirmed)
With over 242 individuals onboard, the international nature of the passenger list is adding urgency to the diplomatic response. Many foreign missions in India have now activated emergency response protocols to locate and assist their nationals.
Ongoing Rescue and Investigation
As rescue teams continue operations, India's Civil Aviation Minister Rammohan Naidu has reached the crash site. Meanwhile, investigators from the DGCA and AAIB have begun retrieving flight data and cockpit voice recorders.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi remains in constant contact with officials. He is expected to address the nation once more details are available.
A Pattern of Global Solidarity
This is not the first time India’s aviation tragedies have led to global outpourings of grief. The diplomatic chorus seen today mirrors responses after the 2020 Kozhikode Air India Express crash. However, the number of foreign nationals involved in AI171 makes this incident a uniquely international crisis.
Governments including those of Canada, Portugal, and the UAE are expected to issue formal statements or press briefings in the coming hours.
What’s Next?
- The UK Foreign Office is setting up a hotline for families of British nationals
- Air India has confirmed it will assist with repatriation and counseling support
- Full list of passengers expected to be released after identification
For now, global leaders continue to watch as India races against time to determine the cause and mitigate the loss.