Georgian officials have expressed solidarity with Austria in the aftermath of a deadly terrorist attack in the capital Vienna last night that killed at least four people and injured 17.
Georgian Prime Minister Giorgi Gakharia posted on his Twitter account that Georgia stands in solidarity with Austria and offers condolences to the families of the victims.
Georgia strongly condemns the vile acts of terror in Vienna. We offer our deepest condolences to the families & friends of the victims of this horrific attack & wish a speedy recovery to those injured. We stand in solidarity w/ Austrians & the world in the fight against terrorism
— Giorgi Gakharia (@GakhariaGiorgi) November 3, 2020
Georgian President Salome Zurabishvili also posted on Twitter, saying that 'we must be united and stand together against this radical violence'.
Europe woke up to face an act of terrorism. This type of violence is unacceptable. Vienna is strong and will stand back up. We must be united and stand together against this radical violence.
— Salome Zourabichvili (@Zourabichvili_S) November 3, 2020
Georgian Foreign Minister Davit Zalkaliani said in his post on Twitter that he is devastated by the news about the terror attack in Vienna.
Devastated by t/news about terror attack in #Vienna????????.Sending condolences 2????????people, families of t/victims &wishing quick recovery 2injured!With joint efforts, terrorism& violation must be defeated&???????? is strongly committed 2accomplish this mission together with you! @MFA_Austria
— David Zalkaliani (@DZalkaliani) November 3, 2020
Police say the attack began last night at about 8 p.m., near the Vienna's main synagogue the Seitenstettengasse synagogue, when a heavily armed man opened fire on people outside cafes and restaurants.
Members of the special forces quickly arrived at the scene.
A major anti-terrorist operation swung into action and police set up roadblocks around the city centre.
Police in the neighbouring Czechia said they were carrying out random checks on the border with Austria in case the gunman fled in that direction.