International reactions to the January 6 United States Capitol attack

International reactions to the January 6, 2021 storming of the United States Capitol emerged from around the world including individuals, sovereign states, and other institutions. Numerous foreign leaders, diplomats, and politicians expressed shock, outrage, and condemnation of the occupation of the U.S. Capitol by supporters of President Trump that temporarily disrupted the counting of electoral college votes.

Secretary of State Mike Pompeo commented on January 7 that the United States is not a banana republic, saying that "In a banana republic, mob violence determines the exercise of power. In the United States, law enforcement officials quash mob violence so that the people’s representatives can exercise power in accordance with the rule of law and constitutional government."

Sovereign states

Africa

• Nigeria
  • Former President Goodluck Jonathan criticized Trump, saying that "nobody's political ambition is worth the blood of any citizen, in any part of the world."
  • Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar stated that the events of January 6 were "a lesson to be learnt: that strong institutions and not strong personalities are the bulwark of a rich democratic culture."
• South Africa – Former opposition leader Mmusi Maimane asked Americans to "respect democracy, to respect rule of law and allow for a peaceful transition to power" and advised them to "follow the example of great democratic states like South Africa which respect outcomes of elections."
• Uganda – Labour Minister Frank Tumwebaze criticized Senator Marco Rubio's statement on the situation for describing the violence as "3rd world style." "So you are benchmarking 3rd world style? This rhetoric & double standard, God have mercy!"
• Zimbabwe – President Emmerson Mnangagwa called back to the fact that the Trump administration had "extended painful economic sanctions placed on Zimbabwe, citing concerns about Zimbabwe’s democracy," stating that "yesterday’s events showed that the U.S. has no moral right to punish another nation under the guise of upholding democracy."

Asia

• Bahrain – The Bahraini embassy asked citizens to avoid demonstrations, follow the instructions of local authorities, and abide by the 6pm–6am curfew.
• China
  • Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson Hua Chunying said China still wished the United States stability and safety but accused U.S. media and politicians of a double standard in praising the Storming of the Hong Kong Legislative Council but criticizing the storming of the Capitol.
  • Embassy of China in Washington, D.C. released a statement urging its citizens to be cautious in the capital.
  • Chinese state media reports drew parallels between the Capitol storming and the Hong Kong Protests.
• India – Prime Minister Narendra Modi tweeted "Distressed to see news about rioting and violence in Washington DC. Orderly and peaceful transfer of power must continue. The democratic process cannot be allowed to be subverted through unlawful protests."
• Indonesia – The Indonesian embassy released a statement urging citizens living in the capital to obey curfew rules for their own safety and security.
• Iran – President Hassan Rouhani said Trump was a "sick person" who had caused problems for the world, and that the incident demonstrated the fragility of Western democracy. He claimed that the events show "what a failure Western democracy is" and how Trump, as a "populist man", has "damaged the reputation of his country." He furthered that the incoming Biden administration should "learn” from America's "populism" and make up [for the past] and restore the country to a position worthy of the American nation… for their own benefit and the good of the world."
• Iraq – On the same day the riots occurred in Washington, the Iraqi investigative court in Baghdad issued an arrest warrant for Trump over the killings of Qasem Soleimani, the former general of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps and the deputy chairman of the Popular Mobilization Forces, Abu Mahdi al-Muhandis a year prior. The U.S. and Iraq have an extradition treaty in force since 1937.
• Israel
  • Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that the "rampage at the Capitol was a disgraceful act that must be vigorously condemned", and condemned "lawlessness and violence."
  • Foreign Minister Gabi Ashkenazi expressed his concern at rioting in "the fortress of world democracy" and said he is "sure that the American people and its representatives will know how to repel the attack and continue strongly defending the values on which America was founded, which are important to all of us."
  • Minister of Defense Benny Gantz stated "I never believed I would see such images from the world’s most powerful democracy...This is proof that before political rivalry, we must agree on the rules of the game: maintaining the rule of law, respect for the democratic process and respectful dialogue. I hope this horrific event will come to an end soon, without any casualties."
• Japan – Chief Cabinet Secretary Katsunobu Kato told reporters "We are hoping for a peaceful transfer of power" and further commented “We hope that American democracy can overcome this difficult situation and that there will be a peaceful and democratic transition with a return to social peace and harmony."
• North Korea – The Chairman of the State Affairs Commission Kim Jong-un stated that the United States is the “biggest enemy” of his country, insisting that the hostile policy adopted by Washington toward Pyongyang will not change regardless of who leads the White House. “Our foreign political activities should be focused and redirected on subduing the US, our biggest enemy and the main obstacle to our innovated development,” Kim stated , according to a report of his remarks by the state news agency KCNA. “No matter who is in power in the US, the true nature of the US and its fundamental policies towards North Korea never change,” Kim added, vowing to expand ties with “anti-imperialist, independent forces” while calling for expanded nuclear capabilities.
• South Korea – The Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a statement congratulating President-elect Biden "after the U.S. Congress' certification of the Electoral College results on January 7" and further saying the "government looks forward to communicating and cooperating closely with the new Biden administration to further advance" their common goals. The decision not to mention the storming of the Capitol was described in the The Diplomat as curious.
• Kuwait – The Kuwaiti embassy said that it "calls on citizens to stay away from places of gathering and demonstrations in Washington, DC, to abide by the imposed curfew, and to follow the instructions of local authorities."
• Kyrgyzstan – The Kyrgyz embassy issued an "earnest request to observe precautions and avoid crowded places."
• Maldives – Former President of the Maldives Mohamed Nasheed wrote on Twitter: "the appalling spectacle at the US Capitol right now, is nothing less than an attempted coup d'état. Having been through one, I know what a coup looks like."
• Nepal – The Nepalese government made no official statement. The Kathmandu Post drew parallels between the attempts to overturn the presidential election and Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli's recent controversial decision to dissolve the House of Representatives.
• Oman – The Omani embassy said that it "requests all citizens... to take caution, not approach places of gatherings and demonstrations... adhere to the officially declared curfew... and to follow the instructions issued by the relevant authorities."
• Pakistan – Special Assistant to the Prime Minister, Raoof Hasan, wrote on Twitter: "Even when a dog barks in Pakistan, there is concern expressed about the safety of nukes here. With the assault on Capital Hill, there is deepening concern in Pakistan about the safety of nukes in the US".
• Palestine – Palestinian official Hanan Ashrawi tweeted that "while people in Palestine & in many other places in the world are struggling to achieve democracy, there are those in the US who are actively sabotaging theirs."
• Philippines – The Philippine embassy advised Filipinos residing, working, or visiting in the metropolitan Washington area to "exercise vigilance and be aware of surroundings at all times; avoid places where there are protests and large gatherings; and comply with emergency measures and requirements imposed by the local authorities".
• Qatar – The Qatari embassy asked citizens to avoid large gatherings, adhere to the curfew and obey local authorities.
• Saudi Arabia – The Saudi embassy urged citizens to avoid demonstrations and gatherings and to abide by the curfew from 6pm Wednesday to 6am Thursday.
• Singapore
  • Senior Minister Teo Chee Hean said in a Facebook post that "[I] have been up, watching shocking scenes in the US Congress where protesters have entered the Chamber, stopped proceedings and forced Members to flee... We hope this ends peacefully. It's a sad day."
  • Speaker of Parliament Tan Chuan-Jin said the events that had transpired in Washington, DC, were "unbelievable." "How did this come to pass? It is increasingly becoming easier to agitate and make people angry. It is not without consequences," he said.
  • Minister of State for Culture, Community and Youth and Trade and Industry Low Yen Ling said it was painful to see "shocking images" of the breach on Capitol Hill. "As the American lawmakers reconvene, we hope for a peaceful transition in America," she wrote on Facebook.
• Taiwan – Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson Joanne Ou expressed "regret for the clashes." She also said that Taiwan's representative office in the United States had urgently released a statement to inform its citizens to take notice on their safety.

• United Arab Emirates – The Emirati embassy said that it "calls on all citizens in Washington, DC, to stay away from the protest areas in the city, and to abide by the curfew decision starting from 6pm today until 6am on Thursday, 7 January."

Europe

• Austria
  • Chancellor Sebastian Kurz was "Shocked by the scenes in Washington, D.C." and declared that the protests were "an unacceptable assault on democracy" and that "A peaceful and orderly transfer of power must be ensured."
  • President Alexander Van der Bellen was deeply concerned watching "the populist prodded, anti-democracy attack" and stated that "respect for the results of free elections and the peaceful transfer of government power is the foundation of democracy."
• Belarus – President Alexander Lukashenko condemned the situation and compared it to unrest in his own country, stating, "I warned you: it’s bad when (people) walk down the street, it’s even worse when they walk into the courtyards, it will be unbearable when they come to your apartments. We must not allow this." However, he also said there was a "certain fairness" to Trump's election fraud claims, while clarifying that it is "bad when they resort to storming and people die."
• Belgium – Prime Minister Alexander De Croo felt "Shock and disbelief at ongoing events at the US Capitol, symbol of American democracy. We trust the strong institutions of the United States will overcome this challenging moment."
• Cyprus – Foreign Minister Nikos Christodoulides condemned the incident, saying that "the will of the people as freely expressed in elections must be respected."
• Czech Republic – Minister of Foreign Affairs Tomáš Petříček tweeted "The looting and violence at the US Senate are not a good example for countries where democracy is fighting hard for a place in the sun."
• Denmark – Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen wrote that "Extremism, violence, polarization and violence is never the way forward. Terrible pictures from Washington. May democracy be brought back to working again."
• Estonia
  • Prime Minister Jüri Ratas called images of the protests "shocking" but he is "confident that the [American] democracy and rule of law are resilient enough to stand strong and uphold any attack."
  • Foreign Minister Urmas Reinsalu described the attacks as "very worrying", adding that he has "full confidence in the rule of law and democratic process in the US."
  • Finance Minister Martin Helme expressed his admiration for Trump and drew attention to election fraud claims by members of the U.S. Congress, "before the riots broke out there". He described the U.S. as a "profoundly divided society" and added that "even if we set aside the person of the currently sitting president, the tensions in that society are such that they will not go away".
• Finland
  • President Sauli Niinistö called the protests "an unbelievable nightmare of democracy."
  • Prime Minister Sanna Marin called the events "very severe and concerning."
• France
  • President Emmanuel Macron issued a video statement describing the events as "not American" and saying that when "supporters of an outgoing president take up arms to challenge the legitimate results of an election, the universal idea – one person, one vote – is undermined."
  • Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian said that "The violence against the American institutions is a grave attack on democracy. I condemn it. The will and the vote of the American people must be respected."
• Georgia
  • Prime Minister Giorgi Gakharia tweeted "We reaffirm full solidarity and support to our strategic partner. Disturbing images of violence at the Capitol Hill, attack on state institutions is unacceptable. We believe in the strength of US democracy & are confident that democratic institutions will prevail."
  • President Salome Zourabichvili tweeted "For 30 years, the US has supported Georgia’s path toward liberty and democracy. We’ve looked to the USA as an example. Despite yest. troubling scenes, US institutions have proven their strength, resilience in the face of violence. Georgia needs a strong United States to lead the democratic world."
• Germany
  • Chancellor Angela Merkel said that the events in Washington D.C. left her "angry and sad" and attributed blame to President Trump for failing to accept his defeat in the presidential election, stating that both the winning and losing sides in elections had to play their roles "so that democracy itself remains the winner."
  • President Frank-Walter Steinmeier gave a speech at Bellevue Palace during which he called the riots an attack "on the heart of American democracy" and said the events were "the result of lies and more lies, of division and contempt for democracy."
  • President of the Bundestag Wolfgang Schäuble announced that his office would draw its conclusions from the US Capitol breach for the protection of the Bundestag in Berlin and examine improvements to their own parliament's security precautions. For this purpose, the German embassy in Washington D.C. was ordered to provide a precise report about the Capitol incident.
  • Foreign Minister Heiko Maas stated on Twitter: "The enemies of democracy will rejoice at these incomprehensible images from #WashingtonDC. Inflammatory words turn to violent action – on the steps of the Reichstag, and now in the #Capitol."
• Greece – Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis claimed being "extremely troubled by the violence and horrible events taking place in Washington D.C.," adding that "American democracy is resilient, deeply rooted and will overcome this crisis."
• Hungary – Minister Responsible for Families Katalin Novák called the pictures from Capitol Hill shocking and said that "#Democracy should be safeguarded before, during and after the elections all over the world."
• Iceland
  • Prime Minister Katrín Jakobsdóttir called the events "an attack on democracy" and "disturbing scenes of violence." She also stated that "[l]iberty, democracy and decency must be respected", and blamed US president Trump for inciting the storming.
  • President Guðni Th. Jóhannesson reiterated his congratulations to President-elect Joe Biden and quoted "1000 year old wisdom from Althing", the world's oldest surviving parliament, saying "If we tear the law apart we tear peace apart."
  • Foreign Minister Guðlaugur Þór Þórðarson observed "Shocking scenes in #WashingtonDC. Any attacks on #democratic institutions and undermining of rule of law should be condemned. Outcome of democratic elections must be respected."
• Ireland
  • Taoiseach Micheál Martin said that "many, like me, will be watching the scenes unfolding in Washington DC with great concern and dismay."
  • Minister for Foreign Affairs Simon Coveney said on Twitter that "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."
  • Minister for Further and Higher Education Simon Harris called the event "an attack on democracy - pure and simple."
• Italy – Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte said that he "follow(s) with great concern what is happening in Washington. Violence is incompatible with the exercise of political rights and democratic freedoms. I trust in the solidity and strength of the Institutions of the United States."
• Lithuania – Prime Minister Ingrida Šimonytė called the events "sad", but is confident that "democracy will overcome"
• Luxembourg – Prime Minister Xavier Bettel called the events "a heinous attack on the foundations of democracy and the freedom of press."
• Netherlands
  • Prime Minister Mark Rutte called the events "horrible" and encouraged Trump to recognise Joe Biden's election win "today."
• Norway – Prime Minister Erna Solberg called the events "unbelievable" and a "totally unacceptable attack on democracy."
• Poland – President Andrzej Duda tweeted that the situation was an "internal matter of the United States" and that Poland had "full confidence in the power of American democracy."
• Portugal – Prime Minister António Costa said that "I am following developments in #Washington with concern. Disturbing scenes. The outcome of the elections must be respected, with a peaceful and orderly transfer of power. I have trust in the strength of the democratic institutions in the #USA."
• Romania – The Ministry of Foreign Affairs labeled the events as "concerning and unacceptable" via a message on Twitter on January 7. It expressed confidence in American democracy, "which should remain a world model", and said it hoped that the situation would de-escalate soon. Other prominent politicians of the country such as Dan Barna, Dacian Cioloș and Marcel Ciolacu also commented on the events.
• Russia
  • Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova described the situation as an "internal U.S. affair." She went on to condemn the U.S. electoral system for the situation, stating that it was "archaic, it does not meet modern democratic standards, creating opportunities for numerous violations, and the American media have become an instrument of political struggle."
  • Chairman of the Foreign Affairs Committee of the Federation Council Konstantin Kosachyov stated "The celebration of democracy is over. This is, alas, actually the bottom, I say this without a hint of gloating. America is no longer charting the course, and therefore has lost all its rights to set it. And especially to impose it on others."
  • Deputy Russian Ambassador to the UN Dmitry Polyanskiy said "Quite Maidan-style pictures are coming from DC."
  • Russian state media reports criticized the United States government following the storming.
  • Mikhail Gorbachev, the last leader of the Soviet Union, said "The storming of the capitol was clearly planned in advance, and it's obvious by whom." Gorbachev did not clarify to whom he was referring however. He also questioned the United States' continued existence as a nation.
• Slovakia
  • President Zuzana Čaputová tweeted "The scenes from the US Capitol show how dangerous the rhetoric of hatred is." and "Contempt for democratic institutions erodes citizens’ rights and can undermine political order. I trust the democratic and peaceful process will be restored soon."
  • Prime Minister Igor Matovič released a statement that the Capitol "is the symbol of democracy and its constitutional role must be respected in all times, under all circumstances." and "That is what the rule of law is about.
• Slovenia – Prime Minister Janez Janša tweeted "All should be very troubled by the violence taking place in Washington D.C." and "We hope American democracy is resilient, deeply rooted and will overcome this crisis. Democracy presupposes peaceful protest, but violence and death threats -from Left or Right- are ALWAYS wrong."
• Spain
  • Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez said he was "following with concern the news," but he "trust[s] in the strength of American democracy." Following the confirmation of Joe Biden, he said "esterday's attack on Capitol Hill has only succeeded in reaffirming the principles we share. Spain will work with the United States for a more just world and the triumph of democracy over extremism"
  • President of the Congress of the Deputies Meritxell Batet posted on Twitter the letter she sent to Nancy Pelosi, to "transmit, in my name and in the name of the Spanish Congress, our solidarity and support for #USCongress after the assault last Wednesday".
• Sweden
  • Prime Minister Stefan Löfven called the protests an "assault on democracy" and hoped for a peaceful restoration of order, noting that President Trump and members of congress have "a great responsibility" for the ongoing events.
  • Foreign Minister Ann Linde said she was "deeply worried" and urged Trump to "admit defeat and acknowledge the election result."
• Switzerland
  • President Guy Parmelin tweeted that the Federal Council in Bern was "dismayed by the events" and said that "American democracy is precious" to the Swiss Confederation and its citizens as both countries share its values.
  • Vice President Ignazio Cassis said that "freedom, democracy and national cohesion are high goods" and condemned any attack on them.
  • Swiss diplomat Livia Leu Agosti told U.S. embassy in Switzerland representative the concern about the violence.
  • Presidents of the Federal Assembly, Andreas Aebi (President of the National Council) and Alex Kuprecht (President of the Council of States) called the attack "inacceptable".
• Turkey
  • President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said the situation had "shocked humankind" and described it as "an unprecedented incident in American history, a disgrace for democracy". However, he suggested the previous Obama administration was hypocritical for failing to condemn the 2013 Gezi Park protests in the same way.
  • Speaker of the Grand National Assembly Mustafa Şentop said "We follow the events in the USA with concern and invite the parties to calmness. We believe that problems will always be solved within law and democracy."
  • The Turkish Foreign Ministry released a statement that called the events "worrying."
• United Kingdom
  • Prime Minister Boris Johnson called the scenes "disgraceful," saying that "the United States stands for democracy around the world and it is now vital that there should be a peaceful and orderly transfer of power." He condemned Trump for his role, stating: "I think what President Trump has been saying about that has been completely wrong. I unreservedly condemn encouraging people to behave in the disgraceful way that they did in the Capitol."
  • Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab said that there could be "no justification" for "violent attempts to frustrate the lawful and proper transition of power."
  • Scotland – First Minister of Scotland Nicola Sturgeon said that "the scenes from the Capitol are utterly horrifying" and called for "Solidarity with those in US on the side of democracy and the peaceful and constitutional transfer of power."
  • Wales – First Minister of Wales Mark Drakeford said that "The peaceful transition of power is central to every democracy" and that it was "[d]eeply concerning to see the scenes of violence in Washington DC"
  • Northern Ireland – Deputy First Minister of Northern Ireland Michelle O'Neill said that "Those involved in these shameful attacks will not succeed. Hope and unity will triumph over fear and division."
• Ukraine – Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba said that "Concerning scenes in Washington, D.C. I'm confident American democracy will overcome this challenge. The rule of law & democratic procedures need to be restored as soon as possible. This is important not only for the U.S., but for Ukraine and the entire democratic world as well."

North America

• Antigua and Barbuda – Sir Ronald Sanders, Ambassador to the United States and Organization of American States, told the Miami Herald "What's happening in the United States is a complete violation of every democratic norm and also of the rule of law in a flagrant attempt to remain in power. Had that occurred in any developing country, indeed in any country of the world, the United States would have been the first to roundly condemn those people, to apply sanctions against those countries and to take action." He further wrote that Trump "openly encouraged a mob to...carry out what was no less than a coup d'etat."
• Bahamas – Minister of Foreign Affairs Darren Henfield described the event as an "insurrection” and said America "will find its way."
• Canada
  • Prime Minister Justin Trudeau noted that Canada was watching the situation "minute by minute" on the afternoon of January 6. He later called it "an attack on democracy" and said that "Violence will never succeed in overruling the will of the people. Democracy in the U.S. must be upheld - and it will be." Trudeau laid blame for the riots on Donald Trump, who he said helped incite the mob. He also stated, “Democracy is not automatic. It takes work everyday."
  • François-Philippe Champagne, Canada's Federal Minister of Foreign Affairs, said in a tweet that "The peaceful transition of power is fundamental to democracy - it must continue and it will."
  • Quebec – Premier of Québec François Legault tweeted in French that the event was "A dark day for American democracy."
  • Alberta – Premier of Alberta Jason Kenney stated that the province "has always had close ties to the United States, so it’s painful to watch the bizarre scenes unfolding at the U.S. Capitol today."
  • British Columbia – Premier of British Columbia John Horgan tweeted that "Intimidation cannot be permitted to disrupt democratic institutions," with a small but violent pro-Trump protest also breaking out in the province.
• Costa Rica – The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Worship said that "we are following closely the unfolding events and we trust the solid and democratic institutions of the United States of America, as well as the respect of the rule of law."
• Dominican Republic – The External Relations Ministry said in a Twitter post that "the Dominican Government condemns the acts of violence that occurred this afternoon in the U.S Capitol, contrary to the country's long democratic tradition. We make the strongest call for an end of violence and for the peaceful transition of power."
• Jamaica – Foreign Affairs Minister Kamina Johnson-Smith said in a Twitter post that "We note with deep concern today's developments in Washington D.C. We continue to follow the events and trust that there will be a prompt return to normalcy in this important neighbour and democracy in the Western Hemisphere."
• Mexico – President Andrés Manuel López Obrador stated "conflicts should be resolved peacefully" and that "We're not going to intervene in these matters, which are up to the Americans to resolve, to deal with. That's our policy, that's what I can say." However, he criticized Twitter and Facebook for blocking Trump′s accounts.
• Trinidad and Tobago – The Minister of Foreign and CARICOM Affairs said that "It is sad and disturbing to witness these scenes of chaos and near-insurrection in Washington DC. I have been in touch with our Embassy staff in that city, and have encouraged our Ambassador and the entire team to stay safe and off the streets."

Oceania

• Australia
  • Prime Minister Scott Morrison released a statement on Twitter calling the scenes "Very distressing..." and saying: "We condemn these acts of violence and look forward to a peaceful transfer of Government to the newly elected administration in the great American democratic tradition."
  • Similar sentiments were expressed by Foreign Minister Marise Payne, who condemned the violence.
• Fiji – Prime Minister Frank Bainimarama said that "The violent scenes we saw in Washington today are an affront to democracies around the globe. True and genuine democracy is a precious treasure that no nation should ever take for granted. We are confident the USA will soon close this ugly chapter once and for all."
• Micronesia – President David Panuelo said in a letter that "The People and Government of the Federated States of Micronesia woke up this morning of January 7th, 2021, to watch in abject horror as President Donald J. Trump openly solicited acts of domestic terrorism against the People and Government of the United States of America."
• New Zealand
  • Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said "what is happening is wrong," that "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. [...] I have no doubt democracy will prevail."
  • Foreign Minister Nanaia Mahuta tweeted a statement saying the country "look[s] forward to the peaceful transition of the political administration."
• Palau – After the flag of Palau was seen in videos of the riot shared on social media, the Ambassador of Palau to the United States, Hersey Kyota, said that "Peaceful demonstrations are part of democracy, and every person has the right to speak up and participate in that process. This includes thousands of Palauans and Americans of Palauan heritage who call America home. However, the flag of the Republic of Palau has no place in the disorder and unlawful act that took place at the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C."

South America

• Argentina – President Alberto Fernández condemned the "serious events of violence and the overrunning of the Congress that occurred today in Washington, D.C." He further stated that he "trusts that there will be a peaceful transition that respects the popular will and we express our firmest support to President-elect Joe Biden."
• Bolivia
  • President of the Senate Andrónico Rodríguez expressed his surprise at what happened in the United States, a country which "supposedly expresses the greatest democratic spirit in the world" and stated that Donald Trump is a "politician with a lot of ambition for power [who] puts his country to international shame."
  • Former President Evo Morales decried the Trump administration for "putting into practice a self-coup to stay in power," claiming that it "promotes racist and fascist violence and is not interested in democracy."
  • Former President Carlos Mesa affirmed that the "shameful action of President Trump can be classified as an attempt by the Executive branch to strike a blow at the electoral system and the Legislative branch."
  • Former President Jorge Quiroga called the events "scandalous and surreal" and an "unconstitutional action [which] borders on coup." Quiroga further claimed that the riot showed a "sad end of President Trump and a profound deterioration of the democratic image of his country."
• Brazil
  • President Jair Bolsonaro did not condemn the storming of the United States Capitol, affirming that he is "connected to Trump." Furthermore, Bolsonaro affirmed that there were "a lot of fraud reports" in the U.S. election. He also baselessly claimed that the 2018 Brazilian general election was fraudulent, declaring that he "was supposed to have been elected in the first round."
  • President of the Chamber of Deputies Rodrigo Maia said: "Today's serious episode in the United States only increases our responsibility to keep the Chamber of Deputies in Brazil independent."
  • Justice of the Supreme Federal Court and President of the Superior Electoral Court Luís Roberto Barroso tweeted "In this sad episode in the U.S., supporters of fascism showed their real face: anti-democratic and aggressive." He also tweeted that he hoped "American society and institutions react with vigor to this threat to democracy."
• Chile – President Sebastián Piñera said that "Chile rejects actions aimed at altering the democratic process in the United States and condemns violence and undue interference with constitutional institutions. Chile relies on the strength of US democracy to guarantee the rule of law and of the state."
• Colombia – President Iván Duque said that "we reject the acts of violence seen today during the Electoral College vote counting in the United States Congress and I express my solidarity and support to the honorable members of Congress and to all US institutions."
• Ecuador – The Ecuadorian foreign ministry expressed concern and called for all parties to stay calm, be peaceful, and respect democracy.
• Peru – The Ministry of Foreign Affairs repudiated the attack and stressed the importance of respecting the electoral process.
• Uruguay – In a short tweet, President Luis Lacalle Pou expressed his "deepest rejection of the acts of violence that occurred today in the United States Congress, trusting that the democratic values of that nation will prevail against any attempt to undermine its institutions."
• Venezuela
  • Foreign Minister Jorge Arreaza condemned "the political polarization and the spiral of violence that reflects the profound political and social crisis the United States is currently experiencing."
  • A statement from the Venezuelan Foreign Ministry said "with this pitiful episode, the US is suffering exactly what it has caused in other countries with its aggressive policies. Venezuela hopes these violent events will soon cease and that the US people will finally be able to find a new path towards stability and social justice."

Intergovernmental and international organizations

• ASEAN – Chair of ASEAN Parliamentarians for Human Rights Charles Santiago said that Trump had joined other world leaders "in suberverting democracy and will of the people."
• European Union – EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs Josep Borrell said that "In the eyes of the world, American democracy tonight appears under siege. This is an unseen assault on US democracy, its institutions and the rule of law. This is not America."
  • European Council – President of the European Council Charles Michel said that "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 Joe Biden."
  • European Commission – President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen stated that "I believe in the strength of US institutions and democracy. Peaceful transition of power is at the core."
• NATO – Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg called the scenes at the U.S. Capitol "shocking" on Twitter, and stated that "The outcome of this democratic election must be respected."
• Organization of American States – The OAS declared that "The exercise of force and vandalism against the institutions constitutes a serious attack against democratic functioning. We urge a return to much-needed rationality and a conclusion of the electoral process in accordance with the Constitution and the corresponding institutional procedures."
• United Nations
  • Secretary-General António Guterres was "saddened by the events at the US Capitol in Washington, D.C., on Wednesday" and stated that "In such circumstances, it is important that political leaders impress on their followers the need to refrain from violence, as well as to respect democratic processes and the rule of law."
  • President of the General Assembly Volkan Bozkir said he was "saddened and concerned" by the events and stated that he believes "peace and respect for the democratic processes will prevail in our host country at this critical time."
  • Director-General of the World Health Organization Tedros Adhanom said "I'm thinking of my many friends in the USA & while deeply saddened by the events I also remain confident in the country’s spirit & resilience. Tonight I wish for peace & solidarity 'from sea to shining sea.'"

Political parties and organizations

Africa

• Tunisia – The centrist Mashrou Tounes party leader Mohsen Marzouk said that "populism is a dangerous disease which can cause serious damage even in the most ancient of democracies", and that the takeaway for Tunisia was the importance of responsibility in public affairs.

Asia

• Israel – Opposition Leader Yair Lapid said that he was "deeply saddened and shocked" by the violence at the United States Capital and that he hopes "to see order restored and the transition of power completed..."
• Lebanon – Secretary-General of the Islamist Hezbollah militant movement Hassan Nasrallah remarked that the events there "deserved to be pondered and mused over in a bid to clarify what is really going on in the US and to discern the truth behind the claims of democracy in that country".
• Malaysia – Leader of the opposition Anwar Ibrahim condemned the violence and criticized Trump for his "insightful language and war-like rhetoric."
• Taiwan - Former Kuomintang Chairman Ma Ying-jeou has criticized Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-Wen and Premier Su Tseng-chang for remaining silent on the storming of the US Capitol, warning that it might cause the incoming Joe Biden Administration to think that Tsai condones the violence.

Europe

• Austria – Freedom Party of Austria leader Norbert Hofer condemned the situation, stating "rallies must not be used to violently try to fight democratically legitimised decisions". He compared it to protests outside the Austrian Parliament in 2000 against the inclusion of the Freedom Party in the coalition government.
• Finland – Finns Party leader Jussi Halla-aho condemned "illegal activity everywhere" and praised the resilience of U.S. institutions, but downplayed the situation, claiming "We’ve seen this kind of brawling and rioting also in other parts of the world".
• France
  • Marine Le Pen, leader of the National Rally, said that "Any act of violence that aims to undermine the democratic process is unacceptable, and I was very shocked at the images on Capitol Hill", but criticised restrictions placed on Trump's social media accounts following the events, stating, "censorship by digital giants raises questions, including in France".
  • Jean-Luc Mélenchon, leader of La France Insoumise, tweeted in French his "unconditional support for parliamentarians [in the United States, and that], the far right must be pushed back and suppressed in the US, and its connections [throughout] the world [need to be] put out of harm's way".
• Germany – Alternative for Germany co-leader Tino Chrupalla affirmed his party's commitment to democracy as the "foremost political goal", and stated "Anyone who violently attacks parliaments aims at the heart of Democracy" in both Germany and the United States.
• Ireland – Leader of the Opposition Mary Lou McDonald lambasted the "shameful scenes", which she described as a "direct attack on democracy and the peaceful transfer of power."
• Italy – Opposition Leader Matteo Salvini stated violence is "never the solution" and "Long live Freedom and Democracy, always and everywhere." He stated that although he had ideological sympathy for Trump and the Republican Party, "a legitimate vote is one thing, going to parliament and clashing with the police is quite a different matter. That's not political vision, that's madness."
• Netherlands – Party for Freedom leader Geert Wilders, who has expressed support for Trump in the past, tweeted his opposition to the protest and stated "The rule of law is stronger than violence. America stands for liberty and freedom, and democracy will always prevail. And the outcome of democratic elections should always be respected, whether you win or lose."
• Russia – Liberal Democratic Party of Russia leader Vladimir Zhirinovsky praised Trump following the situation, tweeting, "Be brave Donald. We’re with you, you’ll get help from abroad."
• Spain – Vox leader Santiago Abascal called for the restoration of order and said "western democracies have to show their strength against the revolutionary processes that the elites have stupidly promoted." He also accused Deputy Prime Minister Pablo Iglesias of advocating for storming the Spanish Congress of Deputies, and the Catalan government of attacking the Parliament of Catalonia.
• Sweden – Moderate Party leader Ulf Kristersson wrote that the event was an "assault on the American democracy and Constitution" and further commented that "The outgoing president Donald Trump is responsible for the hatred, agitation and violence."
• Switzerland – Christa Markwalder, chairman of the parliamentarian group "friendship Switzerland–U.S." called the storm "shocking".
• United Kingdom
  • Leader of the Opposition Keir Starmer called the scenes "horrendous" and said "these are not 'protestors' – this is a direct attack on democracy."
  • Brexit Party and former UKIP leader Nigel Farage denounced the protest and stated that "Storming Capitol Hill is wrong. The protesters must leave."

North America

• Canada
  • Erin O'Toole, leader of the Official Opposition and the Conservative Party of Canada, called the event an “astonishing assault on freedom and democracy."
  • Yves-François Blanchet, leader of the Bloc Québécois, tweeted in French that the event "will certainly allow the benevolent majority of Americans to see that [Trump and his] ideology have not served them."
  • Jagmeet Singh, leader of the New Democratic Party, called the event frightening, and blamed President Donald Trump for inciting the storming. Singh then launched a petition demanding that the Canadian government designate the Proud Boys as a terrorist organisation due to their role in the attack.
  • Annamie Paul, leader of the Green Party of Canada, tweeted, saying of the event that "Moments such as these underscore the importance of respect for the rule of law and the peaceful transfer of power - principles upon which any healthy democracy depends."

Oceania

• Australia – Opposition Leader Anthony Albanese stated that "Democracy is precious and cannot be taken for granted - the violent insurrection in Washington is an assault on the rule of law and democracy."

See also

• International reactions to the 2020 United States presidential election