A car-ramming incident at a Christmas market in Germany resulted in the deaths of five people and left over 200 others injured, according to Saxony-Anhalt state premier Reiner Haseloff. German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, who was present in the eastern city of Magdeburg to pay his respects, expressed deep concern for the approximately 40 individuals in critical condition and condemned the horrific event as a “terrible catastrophe.”

Chancellor Scholz vowed that Germany would respond decisively, ensuring that those responsible for the attack would face the full force of the law, especially given its proximity to the anniversary of a similar tragedy in Berlin in 2016. He urged for national unity amid ongoing debates about immigration and security as the country prepares for elections in February.

Stressing the importance of solidarity, Scholz emphasized that Germany must stand together as a community, focusing on a shared future rather than allowing hatred to dictate their interactions. He expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support and solidarity from nations around the globe, reinforcing the sentiment that “we as Germans are not alone in the face of this terrible catastrophe.”