WASHINGTON/ANKARA
World leaders denounced on Wednesday the killing of Haitian President Jovenel Moise in an attack that left First Lady Martine Moise injured.
Interim Haitian Prime Minister Claude Joseph said a group of unidentified men attacked the private residence of Moise in Port-au-Prince and assassinated him early Wednesday.
US President Joe Biden said in a statement that he was "shocked and saddened to hear of the horrific assassination," and condemned the "heinous act" and wished a recovery to the first lady.
"The United States offers condolences to the people of Haiti, and we stand ready to assist as we continue to work for a safe and secure Haiti," said Biden.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres condemned "in the strongest terms" the assassination and called for justice.
"The perpetrators of this crime must be brought to justice," Guterres spokesman Stephane Dujarric said in a statement.
The UN chief urged Haitians to preserve the constitutional order, remain united in the face of the abhorrent act and reject all violence.
French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian also strongly condemned the "cowardly assassination.”
"Full light must be shed on this crime, which comes amidst a very much deteriorated political and security climate," he said and urged Haiti’s political circle "to show calm and restraint."
Le Drian appealed to French nationals to exercise utmost caution in the current situation, in light of recent turmoil.
In April two French Catholic clerics were kidnapped for 10 days.
Canada's Prime Minister Justin Trudeau "strongly" denounced the attack and offered assistance to Haiti.
"I strongly condemn the appalling assassination of President Moïse this morning. Canada stands ready to support the people of Haiti and offer any assistance they need," said Trudeau on Twitter.
Charles Michel, the president of the European Council, offered condolences to the slain president's family and to the people of Haiti.
"We continue to monitor the situation and call for calm and stability. Only an inclusive political dialogue can ensure the organization of free and transparent elections," said Michel.
*Shweta Desai from Paris contributed to this story
