The European Union strongly condemned the violent breakout at the US Capitol and branded it as an “assault on the US democracy” after thousands of Trump supporters entered the certification meeting.  

The President of the European Council tweeted, “To witness tonight’s scenes in Washington DC is a shock”. 

Ursula von der Leyen, the President of the European Commission said “I believe in the strength of US institutions and democracy. Peaceful transition of power is at the core.” 

“Joe Biden won the election. I look forward to working with him as the next President of the USA,” she tweeted.

In a separate tweet, EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell said: “In the eyes of the world, American democracy tonight appears under siege.

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“This is an unseen assault on US democracy, its institutions and the rule of law. This is not America. The election results of 3 November must be fully respected,” Borrell said.

Borrell appreciated the remarks made by US President-elect Joe Biden about the violence. 

“The strength of US democracy will prevail over extremist individuals,” Borrell said.

Michel said in his tweet that the US Congress was “a temple of democracy” and added: “We trust the US to ensure a peaceful transfer of power to Joe Biden.”