The German government was horrified by the news of the suicide attack in Manchester. At the start of her address at the Petersberg Climate Dialogue the Chancellor said, "It is incomprehensible that anybody could use a carefree pop concert to kill and maim so many people." She expressed her deepest sympathy for all victims, and for their families and loved ones in their sorrow and despair.

Angela Merkel pointed out, "This suspected terrorist attack will only strengthen our resolve to continue to take joint action with our British friends against those who plan and carry out inhuman acts like this." She assured the people of the United Kingdom, "Germany stands shoulder to shoulder with you."

Deep shock in the wake of the attack

On Twitter, federal government spokesperson Steffen Seibert declared, "Our thoughts are with those who have lost their lives, those suffering injuries and those who are still looking for their loved ones." Federal Minister for Foreign Affairs Sigmar Gabriel also expressed his shock. "Dreadful news from Manchester!" he said.

Federal Interior Minister Thomas de Maizière condemned the attack and conveyed his condolences to the victims and those hurt in the attack. "Bombing innocent children and young people to death is so perfidious that words fail me." He reported that he had sent his condolences to the UK’s Home Secretary Amber Rudd, and offered her "our full support to deal with the situation. We stand together!"

During a suicide attack following a concert in the northern English city of Manchester on Monday evening, at least 22 people were killed. According to the emergency services another 60 or so were injured in the attack.