(VOVworld) - Leaders from around the world have condemned the terror attack at an Istanbul nightclub early Sunday that killed at least 39 people and injured 69 others. Russian President Vladimir Putin extended his condolences to his Turkish counterpart Recep Tayyip Erdogan. 

Police and first aid workers were deployed  outside the club where the shooting took place on Sunday  (Photo: Reuters)

Putin said it was hard to imagine a "more cynical" crime than the murder of innocent civilians during the New Year's holiday, adding that the terrorists are absolutely alien to the concept of human morality. The President said Russia remains a reliable partner for Turkey in its fight against terrorism.

German Chancellor Angela Merkel sent her condolences over the killings, saying "terrorists have carried out an inhumane and devious attack on people who wanted to celebrate the New Year together".

Italy's Foreign Minister, Angelino Alfano said that this tragedy reminds the world of an endless fight against terror.

Turkish Interior Minister Suleyman Soylu said authorities are aggressively searching for the gunman.