00:35 Home defense sees heightened threat situation, US
After the assassination attempt on US Presidential candidate Donald Trump, US Home Security Minister Alejandro Mayorkas sees a heightened and very dynamic threat situation in the USA. "We are in an elevated and very dynamic threat situation," Mayorkas said at a press conference at the White House. His department, the Secret Service, the FBI, and other agencies adjusted security measures. Trump's protection had already been increased after the attack. Independent Presidential candidate and Kennedy nephew Robert F. Kennedy also receives Secret Service protection. The same applies to Trump's newly chosen Vice-Presidential candidate J.D. Vance. Both against US President Joe Biden as well as against Trump, there are constant threats, the minister said.
23:35 Spahn hopes for a chance through Trump-Vice President Vance
CDU politician Jens Spahn believes that the selection of J.D. Vance as Trump's Vice-Presidential candidate in the US Presidential campaign "could be a chance." "Perhaps there is a chance in J.D. Vance's selection," Spahn told the "Tagesspiegel." "Last time, the split was that Mike Pence was supposed to attract swing voters, while Trump took care of the 'tribe,' that is, the completely convinced at the base. Perhaps it's the other way around this time, and we'll see a different Donald Trump in the campaign who behaves more statesmanlike and aims for the center." Spahn is participating in the party convention in Milwaukee as an observer.
22:59 Robert F. Kennedy clarifies: I'm staying in the race
Independent Presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is staying in the race for the White House. He made this clear in response to a report by Politico. According to the report, Trump had met with Kennedy to try to get him to issue an official endorsement. There were many rumors about his meeting with Trump, Kennedy explained on X. "Our main topic was national unity. And I hope I'll also meet with the leaders of the Democrats. No, I'm not dropping out of the race." Kennedy is considered a long shot. With the election in November potentially coming down to every vote, Kennedy's participation could be a problem for both the Republican and Democratic candidates, even if he only sways individual voters.
22:11 After the assassination attempt: Robert F. Kennedy receives Secret Service protection
After the assassination attempt on his predecessor Donald Trump, US President Joe Biden has ordered Secret Service protection for independent Presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr. through the Secret Service. "In light of the weekend's events, the President has instructed me to work with the Secret Service to protect Robert Kennedy Jr.," Mayorkas told journalists on Monday. Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is the son of the former Attorney General and Presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy, who was shot to death in 1968, five years after his brother John F. Kennedy was assassinated. Trump had previously asked Biden to offer Kennedy appropriate security measures (see entry at 19:41).
21:41 Republican leader in the Senate heckled at party convention
At the Republican Party convention, boos were heard when Mitch McConnell, the leader of the minority in the Senate from Kentucky, took the microphone as part of the nomination of Donald Trump as the official Republican candidate for President in the November election.
21:14 1700 members of the US military at Republican convention in useAt the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, around 1700 members of the military are in use. A Pentagon spokesperson confirmed this to CNN. Mostly members of the National Guard from Wisconsin, Minnesota, and North Dakota are involved. They will support the FBI, Secret Service, and local police in their various duties around the clock.
20:51 Attack stirs up campaign: These Democrats could replace BidenThe attack on Donald Trump is causing chaos in the campaign, and there are questions about whether Joe Biden should still be the Democratic candidate. In Biden's party, three potential candidates are currently in contention.
20:29 Republicans begin nomination party in MilwaukeeOvershadowed by the attack on Donald Trump, the Republican Party's nomination convention has officially begun in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Delegates of the party will gather there until Thursday to formally declare Trump the Republican presidential candidate. This will happen on Monday evening. The delegates will cast their votes based on the results of the primary elections. The process is considered a formality - Trump has the necessary votes. The highlight of the event is expected to be a speech by Trump on Thursday evening (local time).
20:09 Hunter: "It's surprising that someone came to shoot here"The shooting at Trump in Pennsylvania is causing turmoil in the campaign. Biden has been pushed into a role that contradicts his original plans, says political scientist Thomas Hunter. Trump's peace offering is not to be taken seriously. Hunter sees many open questions regarding the circumstances of the attack.
19:41 Trump calls for Secret Service protection for KennedyFormer President Donald Trump has called for Secret Service protection for independent presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr. via his own social network Truth Social. Kennedy should "immediately" receive protection, Trump writes. Given the history of the Kennedy family, this is "obviously the right thing to do," Trump adds. Both Robert F. Kennedy's uncle John F. Kennedy, the 35th President of the USA, and his father Robert F. Kennedy were victims of assassinations in the 1960s.
19:08 US Homeland Security Secretary: Trump attack was a failureAccording to Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas, the attack on US presidential candidate Donald Trump represents a failure. "An incident like this should not happen," Mayorkas told CNN. "When I say it should not happen, we are talking about a failure." Mayorkas was explicitly asked if he holds the Secret Service responsible for the fact that the attack occurred at a campaign rally in Pennsylvania. The agency is responsible for the protection of the current and former presidents and falls under Mayorkas' department. Mayorkas promises an independent and thorough investigation to determine how the attack on Trump at a campaign rally in Pennsylvania on Saturday could have occurred. Based on the findings, recommendations for security measures will be made.
18:43 After Attack: Trump to Announce VP Pick
Donald Trump will reportedly announce his Vice Presidential running mate on Monday, according to a television report. Fox News anchor Bret Baier stated that he had spoken with Trump, who indicated that the Vice Presidential selection would occur on Monday. Additionally, there are expected to be further surprises.
18:19 Democratic Senator Hopes for Trump's Endorsement
Senator Chris Coons (D-DE), Co-Chair of the Biden-Harris Campaign, hopes that former President Donald Trump will use the Republican National Convention to follow President Biden's example. Speaking to CNN, Coons referenced Biden's inaugural address, which called for unity among the American people. His remarks come after Trump told the "Washington Examiner" on Sunday that he would revise his original speech, stating it could bring "the whole country, even the whole world, together."
17:49 Secret Service to Support Independent Investigation
Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle announced that the agency would fully cooperate with an independent review of security arrangements at the site of Donald Trump's campaign rally where an attack occurred on Saturday. According to the "Washington Post," Cheatle stated, "We are aware of the significance of President Biden's announcement of an independent review and will participate fully. We will also work with the relevant congressional committees in all oversight matters." President Biden had announced on Sunday that the results would be made public.
17:23 King Charles Sends Personal Message to Donald Trump
British King Charles III reportedly sent a personal message to former U.S. President Donald Trump following the attack. The contents of the message were not disclosed. According to the British Press Association, sources from the palace stated that the message was in line with a conversation between Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Trump.
17:01 Ex-Classmates Describe Attacker Crooks as a Miserable Marksman
Thomas Matthew Crooks, the Trump attacker, was reportedly a poor marksman according to former classmates. Speaking to ABC News, Jameson Myers, who attended school with Crooks, stated that the 20-year-old attempted to join the marksmanship team in his first year at Bethel Park High School but was rejected during tryouts. "He didn't even make it," Myers said. "He was asked not to return because his shooting was so terrible that his participation was considered a danger." Afterward, Crooks did not attend further practice sessions. An anonymous member of the marksmanship team told the sender that the Trump attacker "wasn't really suitable for the team." They added, "He also shot poorly."
16:41 Local Sharpshooters Allegedly Supposed to Secure Attacker's Building
One of the two local anti-sniper teams was supposed to secure the building used by the shooter, according to CNN, citing an unnamed source familiar with the investigation. The Pennsylvania State Police denied the allegations and stated they were not involved. The police in Butler County have not commented on the matter.
16:18 Shooter bought 50 rounds of ammunition right before the assassination
Trump assassination attempt suspect Thomas Matthew Crooks bought new ammunition just before the attack, according to CNN, citing sources from the security apparatus. The shooter reportedly bought only a few hours before the act 50 rounds of ammunition at a local gun shop.
15:53 Secret Service reinforces security measures for Republican convention
Following the assassination attempt on US Presidential candidate Donald Trump, security measures for the upcoming Republican convention have been strengthened, according to Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle. The organization has revised and fortified its plans for protecting the Milwaukee convention in the US state of Wisconsin. Cheatle is now confident they are prepared for all contingencies.
15:27 Ex-agent: Trump assassination attempt could devastate Secret Service
Criticism of Donald Trump's personal security following the assassination attempt has grown louder. Former Secret Service agent Tim McCarthy also sees it as a failure on the part of the security forces. The incident is now being investigated - for the Secret Service, it's an existential threat, according to McCarthy.
15:04 Government spokesperson: Biden not to be written off in US election
The German government still sees a chance for Amtsinhaber Joe Biden to win the US election in November despite the assassination attempt on Donald Trump. "Joe Biden's campaign skills should not be underestimated," says government spokesperson Steffen Hebestreit. "It's too early to believe that the American presidential election has already been decided." Other politicians, such as Bavaria's Minister-President Markus Söder, had called on Biden to withdraw, seeing him as having no chance against Trump. Hebestreit emphasizes that it's natural in democracies for there to be the possibility of a government change. "That's what makes democracies attractive for voters, for citizens," he says.
14:41 No direct contact between Scholz and Trump after assassination
German Chancellor Olaf Scholz has not sought direct contact with Republican US Presidential candidate Donald Trump since the assassination attempt. However, there have been "dialogues" with both Democrats and Republicans, according to government spokesperson Steffen Hebestreit. Scholz had met with representatives of both parties during his recent trip to the US. The German government condemns the attack on Trump clearly. "That was a despicable crime," says Hebestreit.
14:18 Expert: Secret Service shows 'monumental failure'
The Secret Service is facing heavy criticism following the attempted assassination of former President Donald Trump. "The shooter was outside the Secret Service zone. What is that, then?" asks Richard Painter, a White House employee under former President George W. Bush and now a law professor at the University of Minnesota. He sees a "monumental security failure" and calls for a detailed investigation. If a roof is within the range of a rifle to reach a President or Presidential candidate, "then it's the Secret Service's job to be on that roof," says Painter. "Have they ever heard of the Texas Book Depository?" That's the building in Dallas, Texas, from which Lee Harvey Oswald shot and killed President John F. Kennedy in 1963 with a rifle.
13:58 Trump Appearance in Milwaukee: Thousands of Additional Police on DutyAt the Republican Party convention in Milwaukee, security measures will be particularly strict. According to the local newspaper "Milwaukee Journal Sentinel," up to 4500 additional police officers from the surrounding area will be assigned to secure the RNC in addition to the city police forces. The area around the Fiserv Forum will also be declared a no-fly zone for drones during the duration of the convention. Outside the area, where the Secret Service is responsible for personal protection, carrying weapons is permitted during the RNC in the vicinity of the RNC - in accordance with the laws of the state of Wisconsin. The Secret Service has announced that they are "fully prepared." The coordinator for the RNC-related Secret Service, Audrey Gibson-Cicchino, stated that she trusts that the event will be protected on "the highest security level."
13:35 Chinese Company's Stock Surges due to Trump AttackAfter the attempted assassination of former US President Donald Trump, a Chinese technology company shone on the stock exchange - all because of its name. The shares of software provider Wisesoft surged by the daily maximum of ten percent at the Shenzhen Stock Exchange today. The company name in Mandarin is Chuan Da Zhi Sheng, which sounds remarkably similar to the Chinese translation of the sentence "Trump wins big." In China, stock market speculation related to current events is widespread. This often leads to price jumps in all directions that have nothing to do with the numbers and performance of the respective company.
13:06 USA after the Attack: "Time for Revenge" for Trump and RepublicansThe interpretation of the attempted assassination of Donald Trump is in full swing. Political scientist Andrew B. Denison expects that the former president and the Republicans will assume the role of martyrs and continue to fuel political hatred:
12:37 Trump Photos T-Shirts Become BestsellerFollowing the attempted assassination of Donald Trump, the online sale of T-shirts with images of the bloodied ex-president has skyrocketed within a short time. On the T-Shirts, priced between nine and forty dollars, Trump is shown with a bloody face, raising his fist defiantly. Slogans like "Bulletproof," "Legends never die," and "Shooting makes me stronger" are printed on them. The 25-year-old Li Jinwei, who sells products on the Chinese platform Taobao from Alibaba, immediately designed T-Shirts when she heard about the assassination attempt. "We had over 2000 orders within three hours from China and the US," the businesswoman told media in Hong Kong.
11:55 Many Years Ago: The Man "who destroyed American politics"The shots at Donald Trump during a campaign event mark the temporary low point of the polarizing struggle between political factions in the USA. The Republican Party's accusations against the Democrats are "hypocritical," says historian Annika Brockschmidt, and explains how political adversaries became enemies:
11:19 "The example that political leaders will give in the coming days is crucial"
According to the "Los Angeles Times," regarding the attempted assassination on Ex-President Donald Trump and the beginning of the Republican Party convention, where the 78-Year-Old is set to be officially nominated as the Presidential candidate: "The example that political leaders will give in the coming days is crucial in determining how the rest of the campaign season will unfold. (...) Trump and the top Republicans gathering in Milwaukee this week carry a special responsibility to not use the attack as a means to inflame their base. They must recognize that the US is a powder keg at the moment, and heated rhetoric should be toned down before sparks fly. For the time being, they must recognize that violence, once unleashed, is bipartisan." Previously, President Biden had already urged US citizens to renounce violence.
10:42 After Shots on Trump: "The divide in the USA is getting deeper"
Could the attempted assassination on Donald Trump lead to a moment of inner political reconciliation for the American society? Political scientist Thomas Jaeger sees no signs of it. Instead, the division in the country may worsen.
10:13 First Analyses: Chances of a Win for Trump in the Election Increase
The attempted assassination on former US President Donald Trump at a campaign rally over the weekend has increased the chances of his victory in November, according to Ipek Ozkardeskaya, analyst at Swissquote Bank. The chances for a win by Trump, who is positively evaluated by the market according to the analyst, rose to 67 percent after the attack, compared to 61 percent before the attack. "Although the attack fuels concerns about a deeply divided America where political violence is gaining the upper hand, it has increased the chances that Trump will win the presidential elections in November," the analyst explains.
09:54 The Attack as a Campaign Boost? Boese: Berlin is preparing for Trump 2.0
The German government has been preparing for the possibility that Donald Trump could return to the White House for some time. Many in political Berlin recall the first term unfavorably, as summarized by ntv correspondent Heike Boese:
09:25 "Heated Moments Could Now Become Extremely Dangerous"
German SPD party chair Saskia Esken, in an RTL/ntv Morning Show interview, on the question of whether the attack would boost Trump's chances: "It's to be expected, yes, that he and especially his supporters will use this incident to further stoke the temperature. We have had similar situations in the past that have ended up at the Capitol. Such heated moments could now become extremely dangerous, not just in terms of a electoral victory." On the question of how Germany and the German government should react if Trump wins the presidential elections, the SPD chair states: "It's only natural that the German government, along with other European governments, are aware that we need to draw closer together."
08:48 "Have we overlooked something?" - Secret Service under scrutiny after Trump shooting
Following the shooting of Donald Trump, the Secret Service is under scrutiny. The service failed to provide adequate protection for the ex-President. "The Congress will conduct a comprehensive investigation into the previous tragedy to determine where security gaps existed and what else the American people need to know," says Mike Johnson, a Republican and Trump supporter, speaking to NBC. Robert E. McDonald, a professor at the University of New Haven who worked for the Secret Service for 20 years, also tells the "New York Times": "Have we overlooked something? And if we have overlooked something, we must stand up and take responsibility for it." McDonald wonders why the Secret Service did not secure the building with snipers.
08:05 Secret Service under fire: Shots fired at Trump: "Officer may have followed the shooter"
In the aftermath of the planned shooting of Donald Trump, the Secret Service faces numerous questions. Trump himself has thus far only commented on Truth Social regarding the incident, and the Republican Party convention is approaching. ntv correspondent Christopher Wittich summarizes the latest developments.
07:34 After shooting: Biden does not want a "battlefield"
US President Biden spoke out about the shooting of his political opponent Donald Trump in a speech and on social media. The 81-year-old wrote on X: "Differences of opinion are inevitable in American democracy. They are part of human nature. But politics should never be a literal battlefield, God forbid, a deadly battlefield."
06:57 The attack has turned everything upside down
The Australian newspaper "Sydney Morning Herald" writes about the shooting of Donald Trump: "US President Joe Biden faces a delicate balancing act as America continues to reel from the shooting of his biggest political rival. After weeks of discussions following the TV debate, Biden had planned to intensify his attacks on Donald Trump in the coming weeks to prove to Democrats that he has the mental and physical strength to defeat the disruptive Republicans in the November election. The strategy was simple: present the strengths of his accomplishments in his first term, present a bold vision for the future, and go on the offensive against Trump by portraying him as the greatest threat to democracy in the US. But the shooting of the former president on Saturday has turned everything upside down. Facing the fear of escalating violence, Biden knows he cannot afford to further stoke the simmering tensions of a country teeming with hostility, anger, and fear."
06:38 A grand show is coming: Trump arrives in Milwaukee
After the primary elections in the individual states, both the Democrats and Republicans must officially confirm their overall results on a national level. This is done at the respective nomination conventions. The Democrats will gather for this purpose in mid-August in Chicago, Illinois. The Republican nomination convention, on the other hand, takes place this time from July 15 to 18 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Trump has already arrived in the city. He can present himself for the first time as the clear leader of the Republicans at a nomination convention. In 2016, he entered as an outsider, and in 2020, the Republicans were prevented from holding a large, pompous event due to the pandemic.
06:14 The Trump assassination attempt affects the stock market
Asian stock markets react with uncertainty to the attempted assassination of US Presidential candidate Donald Trump. Investors are concerned about possible implications for future US economic policy. Bond yields for government bonds rose, which experts attribute to the expectation of a potentially inflationary and debt-intensive economic policy under a Trump presidency. In addition, stricter immigration laws could worsen the labor market and drive wages up. "The market reaction to a Trump presidency was previously characterized by a stronger dollar and a steeper curve of US government bonds," says Rong Ren Goh, Portfolio Manager at Eastspring Investments in Singapore. "We may observe some of these developments in the coming week if the election chances improve further following this incident."
05:56 Trump: I'm just realizing it now
After the assassination attempt at a campaign rally, Donald Trump calls for calm and unity. "This is an opportunity for the whole country, indeed the whole world, to come together," Trump told the "Washington Examiner." The incident deeply affected him. He now realizes the gravity of the situation ("Reality is just setting in"). Trump survived the attack because he turned away from the crowd at the crucial moment. "I rarely turn away from the crowd. If I hadn't done that in this moment, we wouldn't be having this conversation, or?"
05:22 NYT: Explosives found in Trump assassination suspect's house
More information is coming to light about the Trump assassination suspect. In addition to the rudimentary explosives found in Thomas Matthew Crook's car, the 20-year-old reportedly had possible explosives in his house. The "New York Times" reports this based on sources involved in the investigation.
04:46 Trump assassination suspect was a member of a shooting range
According to US media, the Trump assassination suspect was a member of a shooting range. "The Clairton Sportsmen's Club can confirm that Thomas Matthew Crooks was a member," the club's lawyer, Robert Bootay, said in a statement. "Beyond that, the club cannot provide any further comment on this matter due to ongoing police investigations." The Clairton Sportsmen's Club operates a wooded facility in the southern hills of Pittsburgh with a 200-yard shooting range.
03:31 German government preparing for possible Trump re-election
The German government is preparing for a possible second presidency of Donald Trump, according to its Transatlantic Coordinator Michael Link. "Besides the intensive preparations of the German government, which are running very intensively and confidentially behind the scenes, we also need a consensus of the democratic parties, factions, and political foundations," Link told the Redaktionsnetzwerk Deutschland (RND). "I am seeking this consensus regularly and have been networking intensively with the competent colleagues in the CDU and CSU on the topic of preparation for a possible scenario Trump 2.0," says the FDP politician. Previously, the deputy chairman of the CDU Unions faction Jens Spahn and the green chairman of the Bundestag European Affairs Committee, Anton Hofreiter, had called on Germany to better prepare for a possible Trump re-election.
02:25 Biden calls for de-escalation in campaign
US President Joe Biden urged for de-escalation in the US campaign following the attack on his predecessor and political opponent Donald Trump. "We settle our differences at the ballot box. That's how it works - at the ballot box, not with bullets," Biden said in a rare address to the nation from the Oval Office in the White House. "We need to lower the heated temperature in politics." He reminded Americans that they are "neighbors and friends, not enemies." The Democrat expressed relief that Trump was not seriously injured in the incident. Biden acknowledged that the campaign had been marked by highly heated political rhetoric but emphasized the high stakes in the upcoming presidential elections.
01:46 Biden resumes campaign planning
Following a brief campaign pause due to the attack on his predecessor and political rival Donald Trump, US President Joe Biden plans to resume public appearances in the coming days. According to the White House, Biden will visit the NAACP convention in Las Vegas on Tuesday. On Wednesday, he is scheduled to attend a local campaign event in the desert metropolis in the US state of Nevada. Biden had canceled a trip to Texas scheduled for Monday and cut short a weekend stay in Delaware to return to the White House.
01:04 Still and frequently bullied: What is known about the shooter Matthew Crooks
The FBI identified the Trump attacker as 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks from Bethel Park, Pennsylvania. A driver's license photo of Crooks shows a young man with side-parted dark blond hair, glasses, and a few freckles on his face. Crooks' former classmates described him as a "quiet" student who often seemed "lonely," as reported by ABC News. One classmate said Crooks had been socially withdrawn. He could not remember hearing Crooks discuss politics in general or Trump in particular. Jason Kohler, who attended the same high school as the alleged shooter, told reporters that Crooks had been bullied. "He was quiet, but he was just bullied. He was bullied so much." Crooks, who occasionally wore hunting clothing, was mocked for his clothing style.
00:35 "Next time not shoot in the wrong place": US Democrat fires employee for Facebook post
Democratic US Representative Bennie Thompson of Mississippi fired an employee who posted on social media that she wished the Trump assassin had better aim. According to "New York Times," Jacqueline Marsaw wrote on Facebook: "I don't condone violence, but please take marksmanship lessons so that you don't shoot the wrong person next time. Oops, that wasn't me who spoke." Thompson, who represents Mississippi's second district in the US House of Representatives, writes on X, expresses gratitude that Trump is doing well. He adds that there is no place for political violence in America's democracy.
23:50 No intensification of security measures at Republican Party convention
The Secret Service agent in charge of security for the Republican Party convention shares that measures for the large event have not been intensified yet. Milwaukee Mayor Cavalier Johnson does not see the possibility of banning weapons in the outer area of the event venue in Wisconsin as an additional precaution. Carrying weapons is protected by state laws, Johnson says. At the Mega-Event, Trump is expected to be officially nominated as the party's presidential candidate this week. Trump is trying to avoid giving the impression of weakness: He announced that he will travel to Milwaukee, Wisconsin in the US federal state on Sunday afternoon (local time) for the party convention.
23:21 Biden: Motive of the shooter still unclear
After the shooting at US presidential candidate Donald Trump, the motive of the shooter is still unclear. "We have no information on the motive of the shooter," says US President Joe Biden at the White House to journalists. Biden urges the public not to speculate and to let the law enforcement agencies do their work.
22:53 Financial markets expect "landslide victory for Trump"
After the attempted shooting at US presidential candidate Donald Trump, financial markets need to re-evaluate. The bullet that hit Trump at a campaign rally could increase his chances of winning - and therefore, investors expect the markets to react strongly, they say. "The election will likely be a landslide. That reduces uncertainty," says Nick Ferres, Chief Investment Manager at Vantage Point Asset Management. Rong Ren Goh, Portfolio Manager of Eastspring Investments in Singapore, expects the dollar to continue its recovery and investors to focus on a steeper yield curve for US Treasury bonds.
22:07 Injured attendees in stable condition
The two people who were seriously injured in the shooting attempt on Donald Trump are in stable condition, according to Pennsylvania police. At the campaign rally, a man from the audience was killed. The alleged shooter was shot by security guards. Trump was lightly wounded, and two attendees were seriously injured.
21:57 FBI: The suspect acted alone, no ideology identifiable yet
The FBI issues a warning: The alleged shooter acted alone, there are no further threats to security, an FBI representative stated. The incident is being classified as a domestic terrorist attack and an attempted assassination. The FBI is investigating the social media accounts of the 20-year-old who was killed. However, there have been no indications of an ideology or a psychological condition of the alleged attacker so far. The weapon was legally purchased, presumably by the suspect's father. Bomb experts have secured a suspicious device in the suspect's car, which has been taken to the lab for further investigation.
21:42 Starmer phones Trump
Britain's new Prime Minister Keir Starmer has phoned Trump, according to government sources. He condemned the violence and expressed his condolences for the victims and their families, it is reported. Starmer wished Trump and the other injured a quick recovery, according to the British news agency PA.
21:16 They will be waiting: Söder gives Democrats an "external recommendation"
"Violence is certainly not a means of dispute resolution," says CSU chief Markus Söder and wishes Trump a speedy recovery after the attack. He assesses the consequences for the presidential campaign and gives the Democrats a tip.
20:47 Trump to travel to Wisconsin Republican Party convention soon
Just one day after the attack on him, former US President Donald Trump plans to travel to the Republican Party convention in the state of Wisconsin. The Republican presidential candidate announced on the online platform Truth Social that he would leave for Milwaukee, Wisconsin, on Sunday afternoon local time and would not change his schedule.
20:39 Biden cancels trip to Texas
US President Joe Biden cancels planned trip to Texas. The White House announced this. Biden had originally planned to travel to the southern state on Monday. After the shootings at Trump on Saturday evening local time in the state of Pennsylvania, Biden had already cut short a weekend stay in Delaware and returned to the White House prematurely.
20:11 Biden announces heightened security measures for Republican Party convention and calls for unity
US President Joe Biden announces a speech to the nation and calls for unity. "We must come together as a nation," Biden said at the White House and announced that he would address the American people in an official statement from the Oval Office on Monday evening (German night). For the Republican Party convention, which begins on Monday, security measures will be heightened, Biden also announced. An independent investigation into the background of the attack is also to be carried out. In the morning, Biden and his deputy Kamala Harris were briefed by law enforcement and security agencies on the latest investigation status.
20:07 Live on ntv: Biden comments on Trump assassination attempt
US-President Joe Biden comments at this hour on the attempted assassination of his rival Donald Trump. Biden had already expressed himself on Saturday just a few hours after the incident and stated, "there is no place for this kind of violence in America." He then phoned Trump. Biden was briefed in the morning by the heads of the US Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the Secret Service, the security service for presidents and former presidents, on the status of the investigations.
19:43 Firefighter threw himself in front of family and died "as a hero"
The man killed during a campaign event by former US-President Donald Trump in the state of Pennsylvania was a firefighter and family man. This was announced by the democratic governor of Pennsylvania, Josh Shapiro, and he said he had spoken with his wife and daughters. The man died "as a hero" and threw himself over his family to protect them when the shots fell at the Trump rally. He was a "passionate supporter" of Trump. In addition to the one man in the crowd who died, two other spectators were injured. Shapiro said their condition was still critical.
19:13 Many Republicans see blame with Biden and the Democrats
The overwhelming majority of Republicans in Congress offer prayers and support for former President Donald Trump in the hours following the attack on a campaign event in Butler. According to the "Washington Post," approximately 30 of them directly blame US-President Joe Biden, the Democratic Party, or journalists for the alleged instigation of the attack - despite Biden's clear condemnation of the crime and his statement that "political violence must be denounced by everyone."
18:44 Former German US Ambassador: Copycats or avengers more likely
The former German Ambassador to the US, Wolfgang Ischinger, warns of the danger of a spiral of violence in the US election campaign. "Copycats - against Trump -, or avengers - against Joe Biden - are more likely," he tells the "Tagesspiegel." This is all the more true because "multiple conspiracy theories are confusing the already uncertain American electorate." Michael Link, the Transatlantic Coordinator of the German government, also fears further political polarization in the US. "This must not happen. It's important now to maintain calm and respect. That's what President Joe Biden did with his call to Trump," says the FDP politician.
18:06 Trump supporters see confirmed conspiracy theories
The shots at Donald Trump could be decisive for the upcoming US presidential election, explains Frank Umbach. The security expert finds it "incomprehensible" that there were no follow-up actions on the shooter's hints and praises the Democrats for "the right reaction."
17:37 "He will never stop fighting for the salvation of America" - Trump's children express themselves
Donald Trump's children pay tribute to their father and thank the agents who protected him. "He will never stop fighting for the salvation of America", writes Donald Trump Jr. on Twitter along with a photo of his father with a bloodied face raising his fist. Eric Trump shares the same photo on Instagram with a similar message in capital letters. In an Instagram story, Tiffany Trump thanks God for her father's life. "Political violence is never the answer", she writes, thanks the law enforcement agencies and the Secret Service, and honors the victims. "As you saw today, my father is a fighter, and he will continue to fight for you and the USA." Ivanka Trump, who previously announced that she would not participate in her father's presidential campaign this year, thanks the bodyguards and writes: "I continue to pray for our country", and: "I love you, Dad, today and always."
17:15 The assassin also had explosives in his car
The Trump assassin had explosives in his car, according to information from the "Wall Street Journal." The car was reportedly secured near the crime scene, reports the newspaper, citing unidentified sources. The weapon used in the attack was purchased by the father of the suspected assassin, according to the newspaper and ABC News. It is said to be an AR-15 rifle. The AR-15 was developed in the 1950s, initially for the military. The AR-15 is the civilian version of this weapon. Technically speaking, it is not possible to fire continuously with this weapon. Skilled shooters can, however, fire many shots in very short order.
16:59 Now Melania Trump speaks out
After the attempted assassination of former US President Donald Trump, his wife Melania also speaks out. The man who was killed in the attack was a "monster" who tried to "extinguish Donald's passion, his laughter, his inventiveness, his love of music, and his enthusiasm," explains the former First Lady of the United States on Twitter. When she saw that a bullet had grazed her husband, she realized that her life and that of her son Barron were "on the brink of a devastating change." Melania Trump also thanks the personal security of her husband.
16:26 "They are not behind me, they are behind you" - Trump campaign launches fundraising appeal
According to Brad Bannon, a democratic strategist, the incident could be used by Trump. It fits the narrative of the former US President that the country is on the wrong track. "The attempted attack generates sympathy for Trump," Bannon says. "It also confirms the belief of his voters that something fundamental is wrong in this country." Trump's appearances at the four-day Republican nomination convention in Milwaukee, which begins on Monday, could be fueled by the attack. "If the country wasn't a powder keg before, it is now," says Chip Felkel, a Republican political analyst who is not a Trump supporter. Hours after the attack, Trump's campaign launched a fundraising appeal via text message. "They are not behind me, they are behind you," reads the message to voters.
16:08 Concern before the Party: Republicans working with 40 law enforcement agenciesRepublican Party chairman Michael Whatley assures that the agencies are working intensely to ensure security at the upcoming Republican Party convention in Milwaukee. They are working with 40 different law enforcement agencies, according to Whatley on Fox News, but he did not specify what precautions have been taken.
15:44 Top Trump Campaign Advisors: "Please report anything suspicious immediately"Top advisors for Donald Trump's campaign team advise caution. "We are increasing armed security presence 24/7 with officers on site. Additional security checks are being conducted. Our top priority is ensuring the safety of all staff," quoted the "Washington Post" Trump campaign advisors Chris LaCivita and Susie Wiles from a joint memo. "We urge you to recognize the political polarization in this heated election. Please report anything suspicious immediately to the leadership or the on-site security team," it continues.
15:24 Witnesses describe chaotic scenes at Trump assassination attemptDuring Trump's campaign speech in Pennsylvania, shots were fired, causing chaos and panic. Witnesses speak of speculation about fireworks, the sound of gunshots, gunfire on the roof, and the moment Trump fell to the ground.
14:58 Leading Republican: "We need to tone down the rhetoric"The President of the US House of Representatives, Republican Mike Johnson, is working to calm things down. "We need to tone down the rhetoric," he says on MSNBC. "We need to lower the temperature in this country."
14:30 Expert: Trump assassination attempt is an opportunity for Biden
14:03 Trump calls for unity"It's more important than ever that we come together," writes Donald Trump on his Truth Social platform. He is already looking forward to speaking in Wisconsin "to our great country" this week. The Republican Party convention is taking place in Milwaukee, Wisconsin from Monday to Thursday. Trump writes further, "I pray for the wounded, and we hold the memory of the fallen civilian in our hearts." Trump had already called for unity in his inaugural address as US President in January 2017.
12:58 NATO Secretary-General Stoltenberg shocked by assassination attemptNATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg is shocked by the attack on Trump. "I am shocked by the attempted assassination of former President Trump," he writes on X. He wishes Trump a speedy recovery and is thinking of the victims. Political violence has no place in democracies. The NATO allies are standing together to defend freedom and values.
12:13 Video shows seconds between the shooter's shots and the Secret Service's shotsThe American gossip news site TMZ shows a video in which both the shooter's gunshots and the Secret Service's gunshots, which may have saved Trump's life, can be heard. The attack caused panic among the onlookers. The recording was made from outside the area where the rally was taking place, according to TMZ.
11:40 Secret Service refutes Republican claimThe Secret Service has refuted the claim that they had denied additional security resources to Trump in the last few months. "The allegation that a member of the former President's security team requested additional security resources that were denied by the Secret Service or the Home Security Ministry is absolutely false", said Secret-Service-Spokesperson Anthony Guglielmi. In fact, the Secret Service had recently increased security measures.
Few hours after the attack, Republican Congressman Michael Waltz stated that he had "reliable sources" who said that there had been repeated requests for stronger secret service protection for President Trump. Waltz did not provide any evidence.
11:16 Steinmeier wishes Trump swift recoveryFederal President Frank-Walter Steinmeier condemned the attack and expressed his condolences to the family of the victim: "I condemn the attack on the 45th US President, Donald J. Trump", Steinmeier wrote in a statement. "Violence has no place in our democracy - not in America, not with us. We can all contribute: Let us respect violence in political disputes! Let us reject hatred and incitement from election campaigns and debates! Democracy tolerates sharp controversies - but violence destroys democracy. Donald J. Trump and the injured person wish a swift recovery. My deepest condolences go to the family of the victim of the attack."
10:32 Expert: "Trump produced that image directly and instinctively"Seconds after the shots were fired, Donald Trump is seen getting up, covered in blood, and raising his fist at Secret Service agents. Political scientist Thomas Jaeger sees the "master of political marketing" at work here. It remains to be seen if Trump will be able to continue spinning his "witch hunt" narrative.
10:10 Sharpshooter seems to have noticed the assassin just before the first shotsA video posted on X shows a sharpshooter at the Trump rally in exactly the moment when the shots were fired. Sharpshooters are deployed at such events by the Secret Service to secure the surroundings - which in this case apparently did not work out well. The sharpshooter seems to be observing something or someone through his telescopic sight. He recoils, just before the shots can be heard, suggesting that he became aware of the shooter as a threat in that moment. Shortly thereafter, the shooter was shot.
09:23 Participant warned security before the attackBefore the shots were fired at Trump's campaign rally in Butler, participants had noticed a man with a rifle on a roof near the venue. One of them, Greg Smith, told security personnel: "Hey man, there's a guy with a rifle on the roof", he later told the BBC. The response was: "Ha ha, what?", implying that the security forces did not know what was going on. "I thought: Why is Trump still speaking, why didn't they take him off the stage? ... The next thing I heard were five gunshots."
09:15 Scholz condemns attempted attack on Trump as despicableFederal Chancellor Olaf Scholz comments on the attack attempt against Trump: "The attack on US Presidential candidate Donald Trump is despicable. I wish him a quick recovery. My thoughts are also with the people affected by the attack. Such acts threaten democracy."
08:28 Photographer takes picture of possible projectileDoug Mills, a photographer for the "New York Times," apparently took a picture at the exact moment a bullet narrowly missed Donald Trump. The picture "could very well show the air displacement caused by a projectile," says Michael Harrigan, a retired FBI agent who spoke to the newspaper. In theory, it's possible to photograph a flying bullet, Harrigan added. Mills used a Sony Digital camera at the Trump rally, which can take up to 30 pictures per second. The photo was taken with a shutter speed of 1/8000 seconds.
08:00 Alleged shooter registered as a RepublicanThe FBI has identified the suspect. He is a man named Thomas Matthew Crooks. The 20-year-old, who was killed during the attack attempt, is from the small town of Bethel Park in the US state of Pennsylvania, about an hour south of Butler, where the Trump rally took place. Crooks is registered as a Republican. According to reports he donated $15 to a Democratic donation organization on the day of Biden's inauguration in January 2021.
The "New York Post" notes that Crooks donated at the age of 17. He registered as a Republican member in September 2021 when he turned 18.
07:46 Expert: "Secret Service needs to answer some questions"Donald Trump, as an ex-President and candidate, is under the protection of the Secret Service. There are highest security measures in place at all campaign events, as Obama's former campaign advisor Julius van de Laar reports. It remains to be clarified how such an attacker could get close, despite these precautions.
07:38 World leaders react in shockWorld leaders reacted in shock to the attack on Ex-President Trump. EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen writes on X, she is deeply shocked, wishes Trump a quick recovery, and expresses her condolences to the innocent victim's family. "Political violence has no place in a democracy," writes von der Leyen. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau expresses similar sentiments. "My thoughts are with former President Trump, the participants of the event, and all Americans."
The United Nations also condemns the attack on Trump. "The Secretary-General strongly condemns this act of political violence," the spokesperson for UN Secretary-General António Guterres states. "He wishes President Trump a swift recovery." Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy shares that he is "appalled" by the news of the attack. "Such violence has no justification and no place in the world. Never should violence prevail." Zelenskyy also wishes Trump a quick recovery.
Already on Saturday evening (local time), Biden stated that he was grateful that Trump was safe and in good health. In the US, "there is no place for this kind of violence."
07:21 Open Questions to the Secret ServiceFBI agent Kevin Rojek stated at a press conference that it was "surprising" that the protectee was able to fire several shots. In response to questions about security measures, he stated that such questions should be answered by the Secret Service. The Secret Service is not a secret service, but rather (among other things) responsible for the security of US Presidents and former US Presidents.
"They conduct the initial security assessments and determine where the various security locations should be," Rojek said. "And they are the ones responsible for securing the crime scene." A representative of the Secret Service was not present at the press conference. "Nobody was available," Rojek added.
07:04 Trump in New Jersey, apparently unharmedA Trump spokesperson posted a video that shows Trump leaving an airport in New Jersey without assistance. His injured ear was not visible in the video. The Republicans have announced that the nominating convention will take place as planned; the convention takes place from Monday to Thursday in Milwaukee. There, Trump will be officially nominated as the Republican presidential candidate. US President Biden stated that the Democrats would stop all campaign ads as soon as possible.
06:50 Shooter fired from a roof near the rallyAnthony Guglielmi, a spokesperson for the Secret Service, stated that the suspect fired "multiple shots at the stage" and was located "on an elevated position outside the event perimeter." This suggests that a roof near the rally could be meant.
06:39 Shooter is reportedly a 20-year-old from PennsylvaniaThe person who shot at Trump is a 20-year-old man from Pennsylvania, according to a source familiar with the investigation of the "Washington Post." The FBI officially stated that they had not yet identified the shooter, but were "close" to doing so. The shooter is deceased. According to the Pennsylvania police, it is too early to say whether it was a lone gunman. However, there is no indication of "any further threat."
06:25 Media: Trump released from hospitalTrump was discharged from the hospital late Saturday evening (local time) according to a report by the news agency Bloomberg.
06:01 FBI confirms attempted assassination of Ex-President Trump at rallyThe US Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has classified the incident at a campaign rally in the US state of Pennsylvania as an "attempted assassination" against former President Donald Trump. "This is an attempt to assassinate our former President Donald Trump," FBI agent Kevin Rojek said at the scene of the incident in Butler, Pennsylvania. According to official reports, Trump was injured in the ear by the gunfire, and in addition to the alleged shooter, a spectator was killed and two others were seriously injured.
03:58 Republicans plan to hold party convention despite Trump attackThe US Republicans plan to hold their nomination party in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, as scheduled this week, according to a joint statement from the party and Trump's campaign team. The Republicans are set to gather in Milwaukee starting on Monday for their nomination party to officially nominate the 78-year-old Trump as their presidential candidate.
03:54 Shooter fired from "elevated position": Secret ServiceDuring the attack on Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump, the suspected shooter opened fire from an "elevated position" outside the event venue. One person was killed and two others were severely injured, according to the Secret Service. Initially, there had been reports of a severely injured person.
02:55 Trump: I was hit by a bullet in the earFormer US President Donald Trump has reportedly been injured in the ear during the attack at a campaign event. "I was hit by a bullet that went through the upper part of my right ear," Trump wrote on his Truth Social platform.
00:33 Shots fired at Trump: Secret Service agents escort ex-president off stageFormer US President Donald Trump was escorted off stage by security personnel during a campaign event in Pennsylvania after shots were fired. In images, Trump is seen with a bloody ear and raised fist.
In the aftermath of the attempted assassination on Donald Trump, there are constant threats against both Trump and President Joe Biden, according to US Home Security Minister Alejandro Mayorkas. Jens Spahn, a CDU politician, sees a potential opportunity through Trump's Vice-Presidential candidate J.D. Vance, believing that he could attract swing voters while Trump focuses on the base.
