European leaders react to the storming of the US Capitol

European leaders have been reacting to the storming of the United States Capitol since yesterday. Here is a short summary of some of the reactions. 

European Council President Charles Michel described the United States Congress building as a temple of democracy and reflected the views of many Europeans that the footage emerging from Washington was “a shock”.

The US Congress is a temple of democracy.

To witness tonight’s scenes in #WashingtonDC is a shock.

We trust the US to ensure a peaceful transfer of power to @JoeBiden

— Charles Michel (@eucopresident) January 6, 2021

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European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen like many echoed President-elect Joe Biden’s belief in America’s institutions and commitment to democracy. Von der Leyen has been eager to re-energize the trans-Atlantic ties.

I believe in the strength of US institutions and democracy. Peaceful transition of power is at the core. @JoeBiden won the election.

I look forward to working with him as the next President of the USA. https://t.co/2G1sUeRH4U

— Ursula von der Leyen (@vonderleyen) January 6, 2021

German Foreign Minister Heiko Mass tweeted: “The enemies of democracy will find out about these incredible images #WashingtonDC looking forward. Insurgent words turn into violent acts - on the steps of the Reichstag, and now in the #Capitol. The disdain for democratic institutions is devastating.”

Die Feinde der Demokratie werden sich über diese unfassbaren Bilder aus #WashingtonDC freuen. Aus aufrührerischen Worten werden gewaltsame Taten - auf den Stufen des Reichstages, und jetzt im #Capitol. Die Verachtung demokratischer Institutionen hat verheerende Auswirkungen. (1)

— Heiko Maas ?? (@HeikoMaas) January 6, 2021

Dutch Prime Minister Marc Rutte and Irish Foreign Minister Simon Coveney were more direct in their criticism of the president Donald Trump.

Horrible images from Washington D.C. Dear @realDonaldTrump, recognise @JoeBiden as the next president today.

— Mark Rutte (@MinPres) January 6, 2021

Shocking & deeply sad scenes in Washington DC - we must call this out for what it is: a deliberate assault on Democracy by a sitting President & his supporters, attempting to overturn a free & fair election! The world is watching!
We hope for restoration of calm. pic.twitter.com/1OdQYEB35K

— Simon Coveney (@simoncoveney) January 6, 2021

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