The Queen has released a statement expressing her sorrow following the mass shooting at Pulse Nightclub in Orlando on Sunday, which claimed the lives of 50 people. "Prince Philip & I have been shocked by the events in Orlando. Our thoughts & prayers are with all those who have been affected," the monarch said.The tragedy is the worst mass shooting in recent US history, and world leaders have been quick to offer their condolences and support. US president Barack Obama said that the American people were united in "grief, outrage and resolve to defend our people". He has ordered that flags on federal building to be flown at half-mast until sunset on Thursday.
The Queen has led the tributes to the victims of the Orlando shooting
Presidential hopeful Hillary Clinton also released a statement, in which she addressed LBGT (lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender) people. "We will keep fighting for your right to love freely, openly and without fear," she said. "Hate has absolutely no place in America. "British Prime Minister David Cameron said he was "horrified" by the tragic shooting. "My thoughts are with the victims and their families," he said.
Hillary Clinton has expressed her solidarity with the LGBT community
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau released a statement in solidarity with the LGBT community, writing: "We grieve with our friends in the US & stand in solidarity with the LGBTQ2 community after today's terror attack. "French president François Hollande expressed his "horror" at the events in Florida, and said that the American people had the "full support of France at this difficult time", while Lars Løkke Rasmussen, the prime minister of Denmark, said: "Horrified by the attack in Orlando. Let's unite in the fight for equal rights. My thoughts are with the victims and all affected."
David Cameron said he was "horrified" by the tragic event
Turkey's prime minister, Mehmet Simsek, wrote: "I condemn, unequivocally, the horrific terrorist attack in Orlando – as we've seen time & again, terrorism knows no religion, creed or race. "According to police, a shooter opened fire just after 2am on Sunday at Pulse, a popular gay nightclub in Orlando. Authorities say at least 50 people have been killed and 53 others injured, making it the worst mass shooting in American history.