Biden offers condolences, cooperation with Germany after Christmas market attack

President Biden issued his condolences on Saturday over an attack on a Christmas market in Germany that left five dead and injured 200.

“No community—and no family—should have to endure such a despicable and dark event, especially just days before a holiday of joy and peace,” Biden wrote.

He said his administration would be in close contact with German officials.  

“We’ve made it clear that the United States stands ready to offer all available resources and assistance if needed. And while this situation remains under investigation, make no mistake:  the United States will always stand with our Allies against violent terror,” Biden wrote.

A five-year-old child was among the victims in the attack at the Magdeburg market. Magdeburg is a city in northern Germany to the west of Berlin.

A 50-year-old permanent resident of Germany from Saudi Arabia has been arrested in an incident that Germany officials have said was deliberate.

The New York Times, citing reportes in Germany, said the man had posted on social media criticisms of German authorities tolerance of radical Islam. He also has posted support on soicial media for the Alternative for Germany party, which opposes immigration.