Melania Trump calls the shooter who attacked Donald Trump a ‘monster’

Former US First Lady Melania Trump on Sunday called the gunman who opened fire at a Donald Trump rally a “monster,” condemning the assassination attempt that left the Republican presidential candidate injured.

“A monster who recognized my husband as an inhuman political machine tried to silence Donald’s passion – his laughter, his ingenuity, his love of music and his inspiration,” Melania said in a statement shared on X.

“When I saw the massive bullet hit my husband, Donald, I realized that my life and Barron’s life were on the verge of devastating change,” she said, referring to the couple’s 18-year-old son.

“I am grateful to the brave intelligence agents and police officers who risked their own lives to protect my husband,” Melenia said.

Former President Donald Trump said he was hit in the ear when a gunman targeted a campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, on Saturday. The gunman and a bystander were killed, while two spectators were seriously injured.

Melania said she extended her “sincere condolences” to the families of the victims and said: “Your need to summon your inner strength for such a terrible reason saddens me.”

Melania, 54, is barely involved in her husband’s campaign for the White House. She has not appeared at a single Trump rally and rarely meets him in public.

She has also remained largely absent during the former president’s numerous court appearances in recent months, challenging him in court and as he ramps up his 2024 campaign.