US President Barack Obama was one of the first to call it a "terrorist attack". He said America's "thoughts and prayers are with the families and other loved-ones of those killed". Calling France America's "oldest ally", he praised "the extraordinary resilience and democratic values that have made France an inspiration to the entire world".
The US Secretary of State John Kerry echoed the president's words, calling it a "horrendous attack." "I was proud to stand alongside French leaders earlier today at Bastille Day celebrations in Paris, and the United States will continue to stand firmly with the French people during this time of tragedy," he added.
European Council President Donald Tusk, at the Asia-Europe Meeting (Asem) in Mongolia, called it "a sad day for France, for Europe", and was one of many to point out that the attack hit on the day France was celebrating freedom, equality and brotherhood. He tweeted a picture of himself with other leaders and officials, standing for a moment of silence at the summit.
