Dutch politicians have been reacting to the attempted assassination of US presidential candidate Donald Trump during a campaign rally in Pennsylvania, with prime minister Dick Schoof saying he is “shocked” by the attack.

“It is a relief that his injuries appear to be minor. I wish him a full and speedy recovery and I send my best wishes to him and his family,” Schoof said on social media. “Political violence is entirely unacceptable.”

Geert Wilders, leader of the far-right PVV, blamed the media and left-wing politicians for spreading hatred about right-wing politicians at home and abroad.

“The hatred towards right-wing politicians is also unprecedented in our country,” he said. “Their security should be significantly increased where necessary.” Wilders has been living under tight security for years because of threats against him from Islamic militants.

“The hate rhetoric from many leftish politicians and media, who label right-wing politicians as racists and Nazis is not without consequences,” he said in a later post. “They are playing with fire.”

Dilan Yesilgöz, leader of the right-wing Liberal party VVD, described the attempt on Trump’s life as a “blow to every democracy” and “a nightmare”.  Frans Timmermans, leader of the biggest opposition party GroenLinks-PvdA, said the attack was “despicable” and that “luckily, he is only slightly wounded.”

D66 leader Rob Jetten said the attack would given even more weight to the forthcoming US presidential elections. “I hope American politicians show the responsibility and leadership to unite people and to stand together in support of their democracy”.  

Trump has since returned to his home in New Jersey after being treated for an injury to his ear. The FBI has identified the gunman as 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks who was shot and killed by the secret service.

According to CNN, he was registered as a Republican voter but had made a small donation to the Democrats in 2021.