World leaders have reacted with shock after a dramatic shooting scare at a high-profile media gala in Washington attended by Donald Trump, with relief that no lives were lost.
US law enforcement confirmed that a lone suspect, reportedly armed with “a shotgun, a handgun and multiple knives” has been arrested and will face federal charges.
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer said he was “shocked by the scenes at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner in Washington overnight,” adding, “Any attack on democratic institutions or on the freedom of the press must be condemned in the strongest possible terms.”
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu described the incident as an “attempted assassination,” saying, “We are relieved that the President and the First Lady are safe and strong,” while wishing “a full and speedy recovery to the wounded police officer” and praising US security agents for their swift response.
India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi said he was “relieved to learn that President Trump, the First Lady and Vice President are safe and unharmed,” stressing that “Violence has no place in a democracy and must be unequivocally condemned.”
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney echoed similar sentiments, saying he was “relieved that the President, the First Lady, and all guests are safe,” and adding that “Political violence has no place in any democracy.”
Mexico’s President Claudia Sheinbaum said, “It is good that President Trump and his wife are safe following the recent event Violence must never be the way.”
Spain’s Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez condemned what he called “the attack that took place tonight against President (Trump),” stating, “Violence is never the answer. Humanity will only move forward through democracy, coexistence, and peace.”
Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said he was “deeply shocked by the disturbing shooting incident,” adding, “Relieved to know that President Trump, the First Lady, and other attendees are safe, I wish him continued safety and well-being.”
Despite the chaos, authorities confirmed there were no fatalities, though a police officer was injured, as global leaders united in condemning the attack and reaffirming that political violence has no place in democratic societies.
