Suspect in apparent Trump assassination attempt was pro-Ukraine activist

Former President Donald Trump survived what authorities have called an apparent assassination attempt at the Trump International Golf Club in West Palm Beach, Florida. The suspect, Ryan Wesley Routh, armed with an AK-47-style rifle, was spotted by Secret Service agents who opened fire as he aimed near the golf course where Trump was playing. Routh fled but was apprehended by police shortly after. Law enforcement recovered the rifle, a GoPro camera, and backpacks containing ceramic tiles at the scene. The FBI is investigating this second potential assassination attempt on Trump within two months.

Trump reassured supporters of his safety, writing in an email that he was unharmed and undeterred by the event. This incident follows an earlier attempt on his life in Pennsylvania, heightening concerns about his security, particularly as he continues public appearances for his 2024 presidential campaign. Both Republicans and Democrats have called for increased protection measures for Trump, given the proximity of two armed incidents within such a short period.

In addition, the suspect, Routh, authored a self-published book titled Ukraine’s Unwinnable War, in which he expressed violent thoughts, including critiques of Trump’s 2016 election and an apology to Iran, even suggesting Trump’s assassination. Experts have raised alarms over the potential for “copycat” attacks as political violence in the U.S. escalates. Authorities, including President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris, have condemned the act, calling for unity and an end to political violence in the country

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