Cordoba, Spain. Cyprus’ president and foreign minister expressed sorrow and solidarity with Spain after a collision between two high-speed trains in Cordoba province killed at least 39 people and injured more than 150.
Condolences from Cyprus
President Nikos Christodoulides said he was “deeply saddened by the tragedy near Adamuz” and extended condolences to the victims’ families and to the people and government of Spain. He said Cyprus stood “in full solidarity during this time of grief”. Foreign Minister Constantinos Kombos also conveyed condolences to the families of those who lost their lives and reaffirmed Cyprus’ solidarity with Spain.
Details of the collision
The collision occurred on Sunday evening when a high-speed train operated by private company Iryo derailed and struck an oncoming Renfe train travelling in the opposite direction. Spanish authorities said around 400 passengers were on board the two trains at the time of the crash.
Rescue operations and casualties
Rescue teams worked through the night near a tunnel close to Adamuz, freeing trapped passengers from severely damaged carriages. Videos released by the civil guard showed debris along the track and emergency workers assisting injured passengers out of broken windows. Spain’s interior ministry said many of the injured were in serious or very serious condition and warned that the death toll may rise.
Wider context
The crash is the deadliest rail accident in Spain since 2013 and one of the most serious in Europe in recent decades.
What measures do you think should be prioritised to improve safety on high-speed rail networks?
