Russian Ambassador to Turkey Shot and Killed by Gunman in Ankara

December 19, 2016: The Russian ambassador to Turkey was shot and killed in the Turkish capital Ankara on Monday.

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Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova confirmed Andrei Karlov had died of his wounds.

The shooting occurred as Karlov attended a Russian embassy-sponsored photo exhibition titled "Russia as Seen by Turks."

The AP said one of its photographers was at the scene and reported a man wearing a suit and tie shouted "Allahu Akbar" and fired at least eight shots. The attacker also said some words in another language and smashed several of the photos.

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The Turkish news channel NTV reported that police later shot and killed the gunman.

U.S. State Department spokesman John Kirby said U.S. officials were aware of the shooting.

"We condemn this act of violence, whatever its source," Kirby said. "Our thoughts and prayers are with him and his family."

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Russia's RIA news agency said security around the Russian embassy in Ankara has been increased following the shooting. (VOA)