Brussels: Russia has offered to send a German shepherd puppy to France in to honour police dog Diesel killed during a raid on terrorists linked to the Paris attacks of 13 November.
Russia's interior minister today said he will send the puppy to the French police in a gesture to show solidarity with France in the aftermath of the attacks that claimed at least 129 lives.
Gen. Vladimir Kolokoltsevs said in a statement late on Friday that along with his condolences over the deadly attacks he will send to his French counterpart a puppy so that it "could replace Diesel."
Kolokoltsev said the puppy was named Dobrynya after a Russian fairy-tale knight who "symbolizes strength, goodness, valor and unconditional support."
France's National Police said a 7-year-old Belgian shepherd named Diesel was "killed by terrorists" on Wednesday during a raid in Saint-Denis, north of Paris.
Many have turned to social media to pay tribute to Diesel.
Within hours, #JeSuisChien - inspired by the popular slogan "Je Suis Charlie," used worldwide in solidarity after the Charlie Hebdo attacks earlier this year - had gone viral.
Many shared messages praising Diesel's bravery and loyalty, while some users posted pictures of their own dogs in solidarity.
(With inputs from AP)
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