Trump condemns ‘heinous’ Capitol attack and calls for ‘healing’ after being accused of inciting violence

The US President called for ‘reconciliation’ in a stark change of tone 

Donald Trump has decried the “heinous attack” on the US Capital by his supporters after he was accused of inciting violence.

The US President, back on Twitter after a suspension, committed to an "orderly" transition of power, a day after his supporters stormed Congress sparking global condemnation.

Mr Trump spoke as Democrats including House Speaker Nanci Pelosi demanded that he be removed from office - just 13 days before he is set to step down as US leader.

In remarks widely seen as his first public acknowledgement of his defeat to Joe Biden in November’s presidential election, Mr Trump said: "My focus now turns to ensuring a smooth, orderly and seamless transition of power.

Donald Trump gives an address a day after his supporters stormed the US Capitol in Washington
VIA REUTERS

“This moment calls for healing and reconciliation."

Mr Trump returned to Twitter on Thursday evening, after he was locked out of his account for 12 hours by the social media firm, which said his tweets could have risked more violence.

In video message, the president said: "Now Congress has certified the results a new administration will be inaugurated on January 20th.”

He also praised his "wonderful supporters" and promised "our incredible journey is only just beginning”.

His earlier baseless claims of voter fraud riled up supporters on Wednesday in a rally outside the White House. They later marched to the Capitol and forced their way inside.

Pro-Trump supporters storm US Capitol

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Four people have been confirmed dead in Wednesday’s chaos in the US Capitol.

The stunning breach of the seat of US government forced Vice-President Mike Pence and lawmakers to be evacuated.

Their certification of Mr Biden's victory over Mr Trump was postponed for several hours.

House of Representatives Speaker Ms Pelosi and Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer demanded that Mr Pence and the president’s cabinet remove him for "his incitement of insurrection."

The two Democrats said: “The President's dangerous and seditious acts necessitate his immediate removal from office.”

Mrs Pelosi suggested that, if the vice-president failed to act, she would convene the House to launch the second impeachment proceedings against Mr Trump.

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