The United States labelled as an apparent “terrorist attack” a driver’s move to plow his truck into a busy Christmas market in Berlin on Monday, a tragedy that killed at least nine people and hurt 50 more.
“Germany is one of our closest partners and strongest allies, and we stand together with Berlin in the fight against all those who target our way of life and threaten our societies,” White House national security spokesperson Ned Price said in a statement.
“We have been in touch with German officials, and we stand ready to provide assistance as they recover from and investigate this horrific incident.”
“The United States condemns in the strongest terms what appears to have been a terrorist attack on a Christmas Market in Berlin, Germany, which has killed and wounded dozens,” Price said.
“We send our thoughts and prayers to the families and loved ones of those killed, just as we wish a speedy recovery to all of those wounded. We also extend our heartfelt condolences to the people and government of Germany.”
For his part, President-elect Donald Trump squarely blamed the “slaughter” of nine people on “Islamist terrorists.”
{{/usCountry}}For his part, President-elect Donald Trump squarely blamed the “slaughter” of nine people on “Islamist terrorists.”
{{/usCountry}}“Our hearts and prayers are with the loved ones of the victims of today’s horrifying terror attack in Berlin. Innocent civilians were murdered in the streets as they prepared to celebrate the Christmas holiday,” Trump said in a statement.
“ISIS and other Islamist terrorists continually slaughter Christians in their communities and places of worship as part of their global jihad.”
The Republican, who takes office January 20 and is known for his heated rhetoric, also promised to wipe out “terrorists.”
“These terrorists and their regional and worldwide networks must be eradicated from the face of the Earth, a mission we will carry out with all freedom-loving partners,” he said.