World leaders have reacted with shock after an armed man disrupted a high-profile media event in Washington attended by Donald Trump.
Many also expressed relief that no lives were lost in the incident.
According to US law enforcement authorities, the suspect who was carrying a shotgun, a handgun and several knives has been arrested.
He is expected to appear in federal court on Monday.
The incident, which took place during a major media gala, drew swift reactions from leaders across the world, all condemning the act and calling for an end to political violence.
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer described the development as disturbing, stressing that attacks targeting democratic institutions and the press must be strongly condemned.
Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said he and his wife were shaken by what he described as an attempted attack, but welcomed the fact that the US President and other key officials were unharmed.
He also praised security agencies for their quick response.
India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi said he was relieved that those at the event were safe, adding that violence has no place in any democratic society.
In a similar reaction, Canada’s Prime Minister Mark Carney noted that while it was reassuring no one was killed, the incident remained deeply troubling.
Mexico’s President Claudia Sheinbaum also welcomed the safety of those present, insisting that violence should never be accepted as a solution.
Spain’s Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez condemned the attack, saying progress can only be achieved through peace, dialogue and respect for democratic values.
Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif described the incident as shocking and extended his prayers for the safety and well-being of all those involved.
The shooting scare has once again raised concerns globally about security and the growing threat of violence around political events, even as authorities continue their investigation.
