EU Leaders Strongly Condemn Austria Terror Attack

[Asia Economy Reporter Jeon Jinyoung] European Union (EU) leaders condemned the shooting terror attack that occurred in Vienna, the capital of Austria, on the 2nd (local time).

Charles Michel, President of the EU Council, tweeted on the 3rd, "Europe strongly condemns the horrific act that harmed life and humanity," adding, "We stand with the victims of the terror, the citizens of Vienna, and Austria."

Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, the EU's executive branch head, also expressed, "I am shocked and deeply saddened by the Vienna terror," stating, "The EU stands with Austria. We are stronger than hatred and terror."

David Sassoli, President of the European Parliament, said on the same day, "Every time I hear news of terror, I feel sadness and fear," emphasizing, "We will stand in solidarity against violence and hatred." Josep Borrell, High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, criticized it as a "vile act of violence and hatred."

That evening, shootings occurred consecutively at six locations in downtown Vienna, resulting in 5 deaths and 17 injuries so far.

Chancellor Sebastian Kurz stated on Twitter that a "horrific terror attack" took place in Vienna and said, "Our police will take firm measures against the perpetrators of the terror attack."

Local authorities have identified up to four suspects, one of whom is said to be a supporter of the extremist armed group Islamic State (IS). The terror attack began on a street with a Jewish synagogue in Vienna, but the motive for the crime is still unknown.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.