Scholz in Magdeburg: We are seriously concerned about another 40 people, the world stands with Germany in these difficult times

(Patria) - The death toll in the attack on the Christmas market in Magdeburg has risen to five, while more than 200 people were injured, 41 of whom are in critical condition. The attacker drove a car into the crowd on Friday evening, driving at high speed for about 400 meters.

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz came to Magdeburg today and, together with Interior Minister Nancy Faeser, addressed journalists, visibly shaken.

"Almost 40 people are so severely injured that we must be seriously concerned about them".

He emphasized that he was shocked by the scale of this attack, which brutally interrupted what should be a time of joy and peace.

The Prime Minister of the federal state of Saxony-Anhalt, Reiner Haseloff, said that the scale of the attack is greater than initially thought.

"This attack is now part of Magdeburg's history and will shape the city's identity," Haseloff said.

Both Scholz and Haseloff specifically thanked the emergency services who, according to them, prevented the tragedy from being even greater.

Haseloff emphasized that now is a time of mourning, while security issues will be considered in the future.

"The protection of Germany's freedom and democracy remains a clear goal, and this process is linked to the grief we all share. Let's try to overcome this together," Haseloff said.

Chancellor Scholz also called for unity:

"It is important that we remain united and do not allow those who spread hatred to divide us".

He thanked everyone who expressed solidarity with Magdeburg.

"I was touched that the whole world stands with Germany in these difficult times."