From Narendra Modi to Boris Johnson, world leaders express shock over US Capitol riots

World leaders and top diplomats condemned the US Capitol riots with some pressing President Donald Trump to call off the violence. The rioting took place after Trump told protestors to repeat his false claim that he won the US election in November. Leaders around the world reacted with concern online, describing the chaotic scenes as 'shocking' and 'disgraceful', reported CNN.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi said in a tweet, "Distressed to see news about rioting and violence in Washington DC. Orderly and peaceful transfer of power must continue. The democratic process cannot be allowed to be subverted through unlawful protests."

"Disgraceful scenes in U.S. Congress," U.K. Prime Minister Boris Johnson tweeted after President Donald Trump's supporters stormed the building. Although well known for his admiration of the outgoing president, the British leader said "it is now vital that there should be a peaceful and orderly transfer of power."

"Canadians are deeply disturbed and saddened by the attack on democracy in the United States, our closest ally and neighbour," tweeted Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. "Violence will never succeed in overruling the will of the people. Democracy in the US must be upheld -- and it will be."

Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison condemned the "very distressing" scenes of violence

New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern tweeted, "What is happening is wrong. Democracy -- the right of people to exercise a vote, have their voice heard and then have that decision upheld peacefully should never be undone by a mob."

"The enemies of democracy will rejoice at these unbelievable images out of Washington," said German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas. "Inflammatory words reap violent deeds."

Scotland First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said "shame on those who have incited this attack on democracy."

Several leaders held the US President personally responsible for the upset and its resolution. "What we are now seeing from Washington is a completely unacceptable attack on democracy in the United States. President Trump is responsible for stopping this. Scary pictures, and amazing that this is the United States," wrote Norwegian Prime Minister Erna Solberg.

And Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte addressed Trump directly. "Horrible images from Washington DC Dear Donald Trump, recognise Joe Biden as the next president today."

"The US Congress is a temple of democracy. To witness tonight's scenes in #WashingtonDC is a shock," said President of the European Council Charles Michel.

"Shocking & deeply sad scenes in Washington DC -- we must call this out for what it is: a deliberate assault on Democracy by a sitting President & his supporters, attempting to overturn a free & fair election! The world is watching! We hope for the restoration of calm," said Irish Minister of Foreign Affairs Simon Coveney.