Washington: A security scare at the White House Correspondents' Dinner, where gunshots were reported, prompted urgent evacuation measures and drew immediate global attention.
Leaders from across countries expressed relief over Donald Trump's safety while condemning the incident.
Gunfire was reported during the event, prompting guests to take cover. Officials later confirmed that Trump was not injured and that there were no immediate reports of casualties. Security forces moved swiftly to control the situation as panic spread inside the venue.
The incident unfolded inside the Washington Hilton, where hundreds of journalists, celebrities and political figures had gathered for the annual dinner. Attendees were seen ducking under tables as Secret Service agents and law enforcement officers rushed into the banquet hall. The venue was evacuated without delay.
Authorities confirmed that a suspect has been taken into custody following the shooting. Reports indicate that multiple shots were fired near the event, triggering a rapid security response.
Leaders respond
New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani stated that "political violence is absolutely unacceptable."
Senator Mark Kelly wrote on X that he was "thankful that the President and others at the correspondents' dinner are safe, and for the quick response from law enforcement."
California Governor Gavin Newsom said he was relieved that all attendees were safe. "A free press is foundational to our country. Violence is never acceptable," he said in a statement.
International reactions
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed relief that the US President, First Lady and Vice President were unharmed. He also condemned the incident, stressing that violence has no place in a democracy.
"Relieved to learn that President Trump, the First Lady and Vice President are safe and unharmed following the recent security incident at a Washington DC hotel. I extend my best wishes for their continued safety and well-being. Violence has no place in a democracy and must be unequivocally condemned," he said in a post on X.
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney also expressed relief, noting that Trump and other attendees were safe. "Political violence has no place in any democracy and my thoughts are with all those who have been shaken by this disturbing event," he wrote on X.
Venezuela's acting President Delcy Rodríguez condemned the shooting, stating, "We strongly condemn the attempted attack against President @realDonaldTrump and his wife, Melania Trump. We extend our best wishes to them and to all attendees of the Correspondent's Dinner. Violence is never an option for those who uphold the values of peace."
Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi also denounced the violence. "I am relieved to learn that President Trump is safe after the terrifying gunshots. Violence can never be tolerated anywhere in the world." she said.
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum said she was glad that Trump and the First Lady were safe. "It's great that President Trump and his wife are doing well after the recent events. We send our respect. Violence should never be the way," she posted on X.
Taiwan President Lai Ching-te expressed shock over the incident and condemned political violence. "Shocked and gravely concerned to hear about the gunshots fired at the White House Correspondents' Gala. We are relieved to hear that President Trump and other attendees remain safe from physical harm and we strongly condemn any form of political violence," he said in a post on X.