As chaos unfolded across the Atlantic, leaders in Europe were condemning the violence seen in Washington DC, in the U.S.. Here is a selection of the responses:

Angela Merkel, Germany's chancellor 

"These pictures made me angry and sad.

"I deeply regret that President Trump has not conceded his defeat, since November and again yesterday. Doubts about the election outcome were stoked and created the atmosphere that made the events of last night possible." 

She said her shock was shared by the "millions of people who admire America's democratic tradition."

The reaction of President-elect Joe Biden and "many reactions from both major parties of the U.S." reassured her "that this democracy will prove to be much stronger than the attackers and rioters."

She lamented the "tragic" loss of life in the chaotic scenes but said the fact that lawmakers had returned to work overnight was a "sign of hope." 

"I am sure that American democracy will prove to be much stronger than the aggressors and rioters."

David Sassoli, European Parliament president

"Deeply concerning scenes from the U.S. Capitol tonight. Democratic votes must be respected. We are certain the U.S. will ensure that the rules of democracy are protected." 

Zuzana Caputova, Slovakia's president 

"The scenes from the U.S. Capitol show how dangerous the rhetoric of hatred is. Contempt for democratic institutions erodes citizens' rights and can undermine political order. I trust the democratic and peaceful process will be restored soon."

Janez Jansa, Slovenia's prime minister

"All should be very troubled by the violence taking place in Washington DC.

"We hope American democracy is resilient, deeply rooted and will overcome this crisis. Democracy presupposes peaceful protest, but violence and death threats – from left or right – are ALWAYS wrong."

Andrzej Duda, Poland's president 

Duda has been a close Trump ally, and did not congratulate Biden on his victory until more than a month after the election. He described the events as "an internal issue for the United States… a democratic state."

He added: "Power depends on the will of the voters and the security of the state and its citizens is supervised by the services appointed for this purpose. Poland believes in the power of American democracy."

Tomas Petricek, Czechia's foreign minister

"The looting and violence at the U.S. Senate are not a good example for countries where democracy is fighting hard for a place in the sun. Given the emotions sparked by the U.S. presidential election, we could expect today's session to be far from ordinary. Where were the police and the Senate bodyguards...?"

Emmanuel Macron, France's president

"Since the 18th century, the U.S. and France have shared a commitment to freedom and democracy... we will not yield to the violence of a few individuals." 

Boris Johnson, UK prime minister

"Disgraceful scenes in U.S. Congress. The United States stands for democracy around the world and it is now vital that there should be a peaceful and orderly transfer of power."

Micheal Martin, Ireland's prime minister

"The Irish people have a deep connection with the United States of America, built up over many generations. I know that many, like me, will be watching the scenes unfolding in Washington DC with great concern and dismay."

Pedro Sanchez, Spain's prime minister

"I trust in the strength of America's democracy. The new presidency of Joe Biden will overcome this time of tension, uniting the American people." 

Turkish Foreign Ministry 

"We call on all parties in the U.S. to maintain restraint and procedure. We believe the U.S. will overcome this internal political crisis in a mature manner."

Mark Rutte, The Netherlands' prime minister 

"Horrible images from Washington DC. Dear @realDonaldTrump, recognize @JoeBiden as the next president today."

The Dutch leader is known for his straight-talking style of diplomacy and that was evident in his short but direct tweet. 

Kyriakos Mitsotakis, Greece's prime minister 

"Extremely troubled by the violence and horrible events taking place in Washington DC. American democracy is resilient, deeply rooted and will overcome this crisis."

Lindsay Hoyle, UK's speaker of the House of Commons 

Although he's not a national leader, a special mention goes to Lindsay Hoyle, the speaker in the UK parliament's lower house, who sent this heartfelt letter to Nancy Pelosi – the speaker of the House of Representatives in the U.S..