World leaders condemn 'horrifying' scenes at US Capitol building

SAMUEL CORUM / GETTY IMAGES NORTH AMERICA / GETTY IMAGES VIA AFP

World leaders have condemned the storming of the US Capitol by supporters of President Donald Trump.

In a post on social media, Canada's Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said his country was "deeply disturbed and saddened" by the events in the US.

"Violence will never succeed in overruling the will of the people. Democracy in the US must be upheld – and it will be," he tweeted.

French President Emanual Macron criticised the violence and said the people of France believe in the strength of American democracy. 

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson described the events as a "disgrace", saying it was "vital" now that there should be a "peaceful and orderly transfer of power".

Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison condemned the "acts of violence" on Twitter, and said he looked forward to a "peaceful transfer of Government to the newly elected administration in the great American democratic tradition".

New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern expressed solidarity with those who felt "devastated" by the events.

"Democracy - the right of people to exercise a vote, have their voice heard and then have that decision upheld peacefully should never be undone by a mob."

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi stressed how the "democratic process cannot be allowed to be subverted through unlawful protests".

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