European leaders condemn deadly bombing attacks in Sri Lanka

European leaders on Sunday condemned the deadly bombing attacks in Sri Lanka, which has reportedly killed 208 and injured 450.

Jean-Claude Juncker, president of the European Commission, tweeted: "It was with horror and sadness that I heard of the bombings in #SriLanka costing the lives of so many people. I offer my heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims who had gathered to worship peacefully or come to visit this beautiful country. We stand ready to support."

Donald Tusk, president of the European Council, wrote on his Twitter account: "A tragic Easter in Sri Lanka. My thoughts are with the families of those killed in the attacks on churches and hotels; and those still fighting for their lives."

German Chancellor Angela Merkel condemned the series of bombings, saying the "religious hate and intolerance that have showed themselves in such a terrible way today must not win."

"It is shocking that people who gathered to celebrate Easter together were consciously targeted in this malicious attack," Merkel said in a condolence telegram published by a spokeswoman on Twitter.

Multiple explosions hit churches and hotels in Sri Lanka on Sunday. Latest media reports quoted the Sri Lankan police as saying that 207 were dead, 450 injured in the Easter Sunday bombings.

No one has claimed responsibility so far for the multiple blasts.