President Joe Biden is offering his condolences to the people of Haiti after their president, Jovenel Moïse, was assassinated.
Gunmen assassinated Moïse and wounded his wife, First Lady Martine Moïse, in their home early Wednesday, as The Associated Press reports.
“We are shocked and saddened to hear of the horrific assassination of President Jovenel Moïse and the attack on First Lady Martine Moïse of Haiti,” Biden said in a statement.
He added, “We condemn this heinous act, and I am sending my sincere wishes for First Lady Moïse’s recovery. 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.”
Biden also called the news “worrisome.”
CNN’s John Berman asked White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki during “New Day” Wednesday what the nation’s message is to the people of Haiti and what the United States is willing to do to keep it stable.
“The message to the people of Haiti is this is a tragic tragedy. It’s a horrific crime and we’re so sorry for the loss that they are all suffering and going through as many of them are waking up this morning and hearing this news,” Psaki said.
Watch her comments below:
She added, “And we stand ready and stand by them to provide any assistance that’s needed. … We’re still gathering details. We’re still gathering specifics and of course, our embassy and state department will be in close touch but it’s a tragedy. We stand with them and it’s important that people of Haiti know that.”
The Associated Press notes the assassination adds more chaos to the country already suffering from gang violence, anti-government protests and an increase in COVID-19 infections.