Donald Trump narrowly escaped an assassination attempt during a campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania.
On Saturday, as the 78-year-old former President began his speech, gunshots rang out, with one bullet grazing his ear. Quick action by Secret Service agents, who swarmed and covered him, ensured his safety. A slow-motion video reveals that a slight head tilt saved Trump from a potentially fatal shot.
Global Reactions
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer expressed shock and extended best wishes to Trump and his family, condemning political violence.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized that violence has no place in politics and wished Trump a speedy recovery, expressing condolences to the victims.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu called the attack an assault on democracy, wishing Trump continued good health and strength.
The Kremlin’s spokesman Dmitry Peskov stated that while Russia did not blame the current U.S. administration, it believed the administration had created a provocative atmosphere.
NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg condemned the attack, stressing that political violence has no place in democracies and expressing solidarity with Trump and the affected.
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese found the incident concerning and emphasized the importance of non-violence in democratic processes.
German Chancellor Olaf Scholz described the attack as despicable and wished Trump a speedy recovery, expressing concern for all affected.
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni highlighted the need for dignity in political debate, condemning all forms of hatred and violence.
The attack is expected to significantly impact the ongoing U.S. presidential race, raising concerns about the security of candidates. Trump, under Secret Service protection, left Butler and arrived at his golf club in Bedminster, New Jersey, later reporting that he was “doing well” with only a minor ear wound.
The FBI identified the assailant as 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks, a registered Republican. He was shot dead by Secret Service agents after opening fire from a rooftop 140 meters away from the stage, armed with an AR-15-style semiautomatic rifle.
Trump addressed the incident on his Truth Social platform, noting the bleeding from his ear but assuring supporters of his well-being. This marks the first shooting of a U.S. president or major party candidate since the 1981 attempted assassination of President Ronald Reagan.
The shooting occurred just four months before the November 5 election, where Trump faces a rematch with President Joe Biden, with opinion polls indicating a close contest.
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