**Trump to Meet with Acting Secret Service Director After Apparent Assassination Attempt – Live Coverage**
In a stunning turn of events, former President Donald Trump narrowly escaped an apparent assassination attempt while playing golf at his Florida golf course. The suspect, identified as 58-year-old Ryan Wesley Routh, was apprehended after law enforcement officials discovered him hiding in the bushes with an AK-style rifle equipped with a scope. This incident has raised serious questions about the security arrangements surrounding Trump and the potential threats he faces.
**Meeting with Acting Secret Service Director**
Following the harrowing incident, Trump is set to meet with the acting director of the Secret Service, Ronald Rowe Jr. This meeting, scheduled for Monday, comes as a crucial step in assessing the security protocols in place to protect the former president. The Washington Post reported this development, citing a source familiar with the matter who spoke on the condition of anonymity.
**Global Reactions to the Assassination Attempt**
The news of the assassination attempt on Trump has elicited reactions from prominent international leaders. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed shock and relief that the attempt had failed, emphasizing the importance of preventing such attacks in the future. Similarly, Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán offered prayers for Trump’s safety and victory in the face of danger.
**Political Figures Condemn Violence**
In response to the incident, Vice-President Kamala Harris issued a statement condemning political violence and expressing deep concern over the attempted assassination. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing the need to reject violence in any form as a means of political expression.
**Suspect’s Background and Motives**
Ryan Wesley Routh, the suspected gunman, has been described as a construction worker with a history of opposition to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Reports indicate that Routh had attempted to recruit foreign volunteers to support Ukraine’s war efforts, displaying what authorities have deemed “delusional ideas.”
**Reactions from Ukraine and Russia**
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy expressed relief that Trump emerged unharmed from the assassination attempt, underscoring the importance of international cooperation in combating violence. Conversely, Russian President Vladimir Putin’s spokesperson, Dmitry Peskov, suggested that the incident served as a consequence of “playing with fire,” alluding to the suspect’s support for Ukraine.
**Law Enforcement Response and Investigation**
Law enforcement officials swiftly apprehended the suspect, who was found to have a scope on his rifle that could have put Trump well within range. A federal court in South Florida is expected to require a mental health assessment of Routh before any potential criminal proceedings take place.
**Ongoing Developments**
As investigations continue into the motives behind the assassination attempt, there is a heightened focus on enhancing security measures to safeguard public figures like Trump. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by political violence and the need for robust protection protocols.
**Conclusion**
The attempted assassination of former President Donald Trump has sent shockwaves through the political landscape, prompting global reactions and calls for heightened security measures. As details emerge about the suspect and his motives, authorities are working diligently to ensure the safety of public figures in the face of potential threats. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the risks inherent in public service and the imperative of upholding peace and security in the face of adversity.
