The message reads:

Dear Ms Zoya, Nadezhda, and Irina,

Please accept my deepest condolences on your loss.

The passing of Sergei Alekseyev, an outstanding Russian lawyer, is an irretrievable loss for our country. He was a true professional distinguished by his vast knowledge, exceptional industriousness, and creative approach. Mr Alekseyev took an active part in drafting the current Russian Constitution and other acts of law that formed the basis for the development of our democratic state. His name is associated with the establishment of the Institute of Philosophy and Law of the Russian Academy of Sciences' Urals Branch, and the Research Centre for Private Law under the Russian President.

Teaching took a special place in Mr Alekseyev's life. He was greatly respected as a wise mentor who inspired several generations of talented scholars and practicing lawyers.

Friends, colleagues, and students will forever cherish the memory of Mr Alekseyev. We will remember him forever.

Dmitry Medvedev