Tributes from the US, Russia, Germany
US PRESIDENT Joe Biden led tributes to the Duke of Edinburgh yesterday, as the world’s most powerful politicians expressed their heartfelt sorrow at Prince Philip’s death.
Mr Biden and first lady Jill Biden said they are keeping the Queen and her family in their hearts following the death of Prince Philip. In offering condolences on behalf of the United States, the Bidens said the impact of the Duke’s decades of public service is evident in the causes he advocated. They cited his involvement with environmental causes, the military and young people.
Former US president George W Bush also praised the Duke of Edinburgh’s devotion to worthy causes, adding that he and his wife, Laura, had been “fortunate to have enjoyed the charm and wit of his company, and we know how much he will be missed”.
Germany’s president said the Duke will be remembered as one who helped in the fight against Nazi tyranny.
Frank-Walter Steinmeier, Germany’s head of state, offered a condolence message to the Queen, and said it had been his “great pleasure” to experience Philip’s sharp-witted humour first hand at meetings in London and Berlin.
“We Germans mourn a winning personality who made an important contribution to the reconciliation of our nations after the horrors of the Second World War,” Mr Steinmeier said.
“As a member of the Royal Navy, Prince Philip fought for the liberation of Europe from Nazi terror,” Mr Steinmeier added. “His contribution to democracy and peace will remain in our memories.”
Russian President Vladimir Putin said in a condolences telegram to the Queen that the Duke of Edinburgh was respected at home and around the world.
“Many important events in the modern history of your country are associated with the name of His Royal Highness,” the message said, according to the Kremlin.
“He rightfully enjoyed respect among the British and international authorities.”
The Russian embassy in London also posted a condolences message, noting Philip was the great-great-grandson of Russian Czar Nicholas I.
France’s Europe minister Clement Beaune tweeted that “Prince Philip was a grand figure of the century for the United Kingdom”.
Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa also sent his condolences to the Royal Family.