World leaders expressing shock, sadness at the violence in Paris

France has declared a state of emergency and closed its borders after a series of attacks left at least 100 people dead Friday in Paris, the deadliest violence the city has seen since the Second World War. World leaders from across the globe weighed in on the tragedy with shock and expressed their sympathies for the people of France.

The President of the United States Barack Obama said the attacks on Paris  were”outrageous attempt to terrorize innocent civilians” and vowed to do whatever it takes to help bring the perpetrators to justice.

He called the attacks a “heartbreaking situation” and an “attack on all of humanity.”

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau expressed shock and sadness over the attacks in Paris.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with the people of France and we mourn their loss,” Trudeau said in a statement.

“Canada stands with France at this dark time and offers all possible assistance. We will continue to work closely with the international community to help prevent these terrible, senseless acts.”

German Chancellor Angela Merkel said she is “deeply shaken by the news and pictures that are reaching us from Paris.” The German leader issued a statement saying her thoughts were with the victims “of the apparent terrorist attack.”

The Secretary-General of the NATO alliance Jens Stoltenberg said he is “deeply shocked by horrific Paris attacks.”

He posted in a Twitter message that said “We stand together with the people of #France. Terrorism will never defeat democracy.”

U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon condemned “the despicable terrorist attacks” in Paris and demanded the immediate release of the hostages being held in the Bataclan theatre.

It was later reported that at least 100 people were killed at the theatre.

French President Francois Hollande was attending an international soccer match when several explosions took place outside the national stadium. In a televised address Holland said that the nation would stand firm and united following the attacks.

“This is a terrible ordeal that again assails us,” he said. “We know where it comes from, who these criminals are, who these terrorists are.”

With files from The Associated Press.