World Leaders Condemn Assassination of Conservative Activist Charlie Kirk in Utah Shooting

By Kamal Yalwa: September 11, 2025

Charlie Kirk, the conservative American activist and co-founder of Turning Point USA, was fatally shot on Tuesday while speaking at Utah Valley University during an event on his “American Comeback Tour.” The shocking incident, captured on video, has drawn widespread condemnation from leaders across the globe, including U.S. President Donald Trump and several current and former heads of government.

Kirk, 31, was known for his prominent role in galvanizing young conservative voters and was a vocal supporter of President Trump. He had gained national attention for his media presence, grassroots organizing, and outspoken views on American politics and culture.

President Trump issued a heartfelt statement on his Truth Social platform, mourning the loss of what he called “a legendary” American patriot.

“The Great, and even Legendary, Charlie Kirk, is dead,” Trump wrote. “No one understood or had the Heart of the Youth in the United States of America better than Charlie. He was loved and admired by ALL, especially me, and now, he is no longer with us.”

In a video posted to his X (formerly Twitter) account, Trump condemned the political violence and urged Americans to reflect on the consequences of what he called a toxic political climate.

“It is long past time for all Americans and the media to confront the fact that violence and murder are the tragic consequences of demonising those with whom you disagree.”

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu also paid tribute to Kirk, calling him a “lion-hearted friend of Israel.”

“Charlie Kirk was murdered for speaking truth and defending freedom. A lion-hearted friend of Israel, he fought the lies and stood tall for Judeo-Christian civilisation,” Netanyahu said, noting he had recently spoken with Kirk and invited him to Israel. “Sadly, that visit will not take place.”

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney expressed his shock at the assassination.

“I am appalled by the murder of Charlie Kirk. There is no justification for political violence, and every act of it threatens democracy,” he wrote. “My thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends, and loved ones.”

Former U.S. President Barack Obama also reacted to the tragedy, urging calm and unity in the face of such violence.

“We don’t yet know what motivated the person who shot and killed Charlie Kirk, but this kind of despicable violence has no place in our democracy,” Obama posted on X. “Michelle and I will be praying for Charlie’s family tonight, especially his wife Erika and their two young children.”

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing the sanctity of free speech.

“My thoughts this evening are with the loved ones of Charlie Kirk. It is heartbreaking that a young family has been robbed of a father and a husband,” he wrote. “We must all be free to debate openly and freely without fear – there can be no justification for political violence.”

Authorities have not yet released the identity or motives of the shooter, and investigations are ongoing. Meanwhile, tributes continue to pour in from political allies, critics, and citizens alike, many of whom view Kirk’s killing as a stark warning about rising political tensions in America.

Charlie Kirk leaves behind his wife, Erika, and their two young children.