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Capitol riots: Seeing events in the US 'empowers autocrats and dictators'

There were violent scenes in Washington after supporters of President Trump stormed the Capitol building. The riot forced the suspension of a joint session of Congress to certify Joe Biden's electoral victory.

Tom Tugendhat, a British Conservative MP and chairman of the Foreign Affairs Committee, believes events in Washington set a dangerous precedent in their attempt to undermine the democratic process.

"American democracy goes much deeper than one man's attempt to change a result that was decided by the American people. ... Seeing the United States going through these terrible moments empowers autocrats and dictators."

Photo: An explosion caused by a police munition is seen while supporters of President Trump gather in front of the US Capitol Building in Washington, US, January 6, 2021 Credit: Reuters

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