"I heard of the attacks yesterday evening in London with sorrow and horror," said Chancellor Angela Merkel. According to the London police, at least six people were killed in the attack in the heart of London.

On Saturday evening a delivery van raced into a crowd of people on London Bridge. The attackers then stabbed random passers-by in a nearby district known for its nightlife. Police have declared it a terrorist incident. The three attackers, who were wearing fake explosives vests, were shot by police officers.

Solidarity with the United Kingdom

"At this time I am thinking with sympathy and solidarity of our British friends and all the people in London," Angela Merkel continued. "My thoughts are with the victims of the attack and their families. I wish all those injured a speedy recovery."

"Today, across all borders, we are united in our horror and our grief, but equally in our determination." In the fight against all forms of terrorism, Germany stands side by side with the United Kingdom, reiterated the Chancellor.

"Once again the United Kingdom has been hit by terror – and once again the attack targeted people who simply wanted to have an enjoyable evening," said Federal Minister for Foreign Affairs Sigmar Gabriel. "We stand resolutely should to shoulder with our British friends."

On Twitter Federal Interior Minister Thomas de Maizière expressed his sympathy. "I am appalled that last night London was once again the target of a cowardly attack." He expressed his condolences to his British counterpart Amber Rudd and pledged full support.

As a symbol of deep sympathy the Brandenburg Gate in the heart of Berlin was lit up in the red, white and blue of the Union Jack on Whit Sunday evening.