In response to the assassination attempt on former US President Donald Trump, Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep concern on Sunday, referring to Trump as his “friend.” Known for his cordial relationship with the business tycoon-turned-politician, PM Modi emphasised that violence has no place in politics and democracies.
“Deeply concerned by the attack on my friend, former President Donald Trump. Strongly condemn the incident. Violence has no place in politics and democracies. Wish him a speedy recovery,” PM Modi posted on X.
He also extended his solidarity to the American people.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of the deceased, those injured, and the American people,” he added.
Donald Trump, the Republican presidential candidate, was addressing a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, when a shooter fired several bullets in an assassination attempt. One spectator was killed, and two were injured in the incident. The United States Secret Service agents neutralised the shooter, whose identity and motivation are currently being investigated by US authorities.
When the first shots were fired, Donald Trump clutched his ear. Dark-suited agents quickly surrounded him and whisked him away to a waiting SUV. In a show of defiance, Trump, with his face bloodied from an ear injury, pumped his fist in the air and mouthed “fight” before being taken away.
US authorities later stated that Trump’s injury was not serious. Trump detailed the incident on his social networking site, Truth Social, saying that a bullet had grazed the upper part of his right ear.
“I was shot with a bullet that pierced the upper part of my right ear,” Trump wrote on his app. “I knew immediately something was wrong when I heard a whizzing sound and shots and felt the bullet ripping through the skin. It is incredible that such an act can take place in our country,” he added.
Donald Trump remains the frontrunner in the race for the presidential post.