Royals express condolences after German terror attack at Christmas market

Royals from across the globe have expressed their condolences to Germany after a terror attack on a Christmas market in Magdeburg.

King Harald of Norway sent his sympathies in a letter to German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier. He said: “I was deeply saddened by the tragic news of the attack on the Christmas market in Magdeburg Friday night, resulting in the loss of many lives and inflicting such dreadful injuries.

“I extend my condolences and ask you to convey the deepest sympathy of the Norwegian people to the bereaved families and to those who are injured.”

Harald’s counterpart in Denmark, Frederik, also sent his condolences, saying: “I am deeply shocked by the tragic attack in Magdeburg last night and offer my sincere condolences to you and the German people. My thoughts are with the victims, their families and friends. May they find comfort and strength in this difficult time.”

Sweden’s King Carl Gustaf wrote to the President: “The Queen and I would like to express our deepest condolences on the tragic attack in Magdeburg on 20 December. We remember the victims and their families on this sad day for Germany.”

Grand Duke Henri of Luxembourg posted, “Mr President, The Grand Duchess and I learned with dismay of the deadly attack on the Christmas market in Magdeburg. In these dark hours, it is our concern to express to you, on behalf of our countrymen and on our own behalf, our deep sympathy for all those affected by this tragedy. We assure you of our solidarity in the face of this act of blind violence.”

Albert II, Prince of Monaco sent a message that said, “Mr. Chancellor, I learned with horror of the tragedy at the Magdeburg Christmas market. In union with the families of the victims, the injured and the German people in their grief and dismay, I assure you of my country’s solidarity in the face of this cruel ordeal. Please accept, Mr. Chancellor, the assurance of my deep sorrow and my highest consideration.”

At least five have been killed and another 200 injured – around 40 critically – after a man in a black BMW ploughed into a Magdeburg Christmas market on 20 December. German authorities arrested a 50-year-old Saudi Arabian after the attack.