Kathrine Frich
Data compiled by US outlets shows political violence has killed at least 21 people since the start of the year.
Data compiled by US outlets shows political violence has killed at least 21 people since the start of the year.
Russian officials react to Charlie Kirk’s assassination
The killing of conservative activist Charlie Kirk in Utah has sparked strong reactions in Russia.
Several Kremlin-linked figures claimed the attack carried a wider political meaning.
Some even suggested the murder was intended as a warning to US President Donald Trump.
Medvedev blames “left-wing liberal scum”
Dmitry Medvedev, deputy chairman of Russia’s Security Council and former president, was quick to point fingers.
He accused “a bunch of left-wing liberal scum” who support Ukraine of being behind the killing.
Medvedev added: “Who’s next? Maybe it’s time for the MAGA team to realize that by supporting Ukraine, they are supporting murderers.”
Dmitriev highlights Kirk’s pro-Russia stance
Kirill Dmitriev, head of the Russian Direct Investment Fund, called Kirk a rare US voice for dialogue with Moscow.
He noted Kirk was known for “positive statements about Russia and calls for dialogue.”
Dmitriev said his death shows how deep political divisions have become in the United States.
“Significant for the whole world”
Dmitriev also framed the assassination as an event with global consequences.
“This event is significant not only for American politics, but also for the whole world,” he said.
He argued that the attack on “a person who advocates for common sense and against hysteria” highlighted dangerous polarization.
Pushkov suggests a warning to Trump
Alexei Pushkov, a Russian senator, compared the shooting in Utah to earlier attempts on Trump’s life.
He said Kirk’s killing might be “a clear message” to other conservative leaders.
“The main recipient is probably the President of the United States. A warning to Trump?” he asked.
Trump faced two assassination attempts
Donald Trump himself has been the target of assassination plots.
He survived two attempts on his life last year, both widely covered in the press.
Other acts of violence this year have shocked the country. In June, a Christian nationalist killed a Democratic politician and her husband in Minnesota and wounded another lawmaker.
