The President of Ukraine expressed condolences and called for a thorough investigation into the motives of the attacker who drove into a crowd at the Christmas market in Magdeburg. Volodymyr Zelenskyy extended support to the residents of Germany and wished recovery to the injured. Official reports indicate that 5 people have died (media sources mention 11 victims), while the number of injured ranges from 60 to 80 individuals.
Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed his sympathies and urged for a careful inquiry into the tragedy in Magdeburg. He condemned any form of violence anywhere. He shared this on his social media account.
""Shocking news from Germany, where medical professionals are fighting for the lives of those injured in the horrific attack at the Christmas market in Magdeburg. Violence should never prevail, anywhere," the President of Ukraine stated.
He emphasized that determining the reasons and motives behind the attacker's actions is extremely important. Additionally, the head of state expressed solidarity with the residents of Magdeburg and all citizens of Germany during this difficult time.
"We stand with the people of Magdeburg and all Germans on this tough day. Stay strong, dear German friends," he added.
On December 20, a car plowed into people at a Christmas market in Magdeburg. Eyewitnesses reported that the vehicle sped directly toward the town hall, while people panicked and tried to flee.
Initially, reports indicated 20 injured, but it later became known that 5 had died and over 200 were wounded. Among them, 41 individuals are in serious condition. The death toll is expected to rise. Most of the market attendees were families with children. Chancellor Olaf Scholz arrived at the scene of the tragedy.
According to Focus, the man has already been apprehended. The suspect turned out to be a 50-year-old man from Saudi Arabia. Media reports suggest that he is a political refugee and worked as a psychotherapist. He had also criticized Islam on social media.