U.S. ready to help New Zealand after mosque shootings

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U.S. President Donald Trump said he told New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern during a call on Friday that the United States is prepared to give any assistance following the killing of 49 people at two mosques in New Zealand.

"I informed the Prime Minister that we stand in solidarity with New Zealand and that any assistance the U.S.A. can give, we stand by ready to help," Trump said on Twitter.

In remarks to reporters at the White House, Trump added: "Earlier today I spoke with Prime Minister Ardern of New Zealand to express the sorrow of our entire nation following the terrorist attacks at two mosques. These sacred places of worship were turned into scenes of evil killing."

New Zealand's Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern speaks on live television following fatal shootings at two mosques in central Christchurch, New Zealand, March 15, 2019. /Reuters Photo

The gunman in New Zealand killed 49 people, and 42 people were being treated for injuries, police said. Some of the victims were kneeling in prayer, and the gunman broadcast footage of some of the killings online.

Ardern described the incident, the worst mass shooting in New Zealand's history, as an assault on the country's values.

Asked by a reporter if he sees an increase in white nationalism, Trump said: "I don't really. I think it's a small group of people."

(Top photo: Residents pay their respects by placing flowers for the victims of the mosques attacks in Christchurch, New Zealand, on March 16, 2019. /VCG Photo)

Source(s): Reuters