USA: 'Moment of reckoning' as President Trump incites violence at the Capitol

President Trump’s rejection of the U.S. election results, and incitement of his supporters has “fanned the flames of the chaos and violence”, Amnesty International said following last night’s breach of the U.S Capitol.

“President Trump’s refusal to facilitate a peaceful transfer of power has put human rights, public safety and the rule of law at grave risk in the United States.

“The President’s embrace of white supremacist groups and extremists has further fanned the flames of the chaos and violence we witnessed today. All U.S. officials must respect, protect, and fulfill human rights, including the right to be free from violence, intimidation, and racism.

"Amnesty works for a world where all those in power respect the law, meet their human rights obligations, and are held to account when failing to do so. Across the world, we have witnessed the dire consequences of government officials who spread false information and incite racist or political violence to stay in power.

"This is a moment of reckoning for the United States. President Trump has repeatedly encouraged violence and disorder by his supporters. These are not the actions of a leader, but an instigator. All public officials must condemn the President’s words.”