Trump condemns Barcelona attack, says America is ready to help

Washington, Aug 18: US President Donald Trump condemned Thursday’s terrorist attack in Barcelona and said that the US stood ready to assist Spain, the media reported.

“The United States condemns the terror attack in Barcelona, Spain, and will do whatever is necessary to help. Be tough & strong, we love you!,” Trump said on Twitter.

Trump’s tweet followed brief public remarks by Secretary of State Rex Tillerson conveying the same sentiments, Efe news reported.

“We offer condolences to the loss of life and the injuries that have occurred to so many innocent people yet again,” Tillerson said, adding that terrorists around the world “should know that the US and our allies are resolved to find you and bring you to justice”.

Spanish authorities said that 13 were killed and 50 others injured when a man at the wheel of a van rammed into people in an area of Barcelona popular with tourists.

Meanwhile, Chiefs of the European Union (EU) also lambasted the “cowardly” terror attack in Barcelona, Xinhua news agency reported.

“This cowardly attack has deliberately targeted those enjoying life and sharing time with family and friends. We will never be cowed by such barbarism,” European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker said in a statement.

“I send my deepest condolences to the families and loved ones of the victims, as well as to Prime Minister Rajoy and the people of Spain. My thoughts are with the people of Barcelona,” he added.

Echoing Juncker, European Council President Donald Tusk tweeted: “All of Europe stands with Barcelona. Our thoughts are with the victims and all affected by this cowardly attack on innocents.”