Striking scenes of protesters breaking into the US Capitol building have shocked people around the world.
The images of Donald Trump supporters clashing with police, breaking windows and occupying the Senate chamber have drawn criticism from UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson and even the NATO secretary general.
In the final days of the outgoing US president’s administration, they were a powerful reminder of how bitterly divided the country is two months since Joe Biden won the race for the White House.
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A protester who gained entry to the Capitol carried a Conferderate flag through it
Some people were seen climbing the west wall of the the Capitol
A police officer confronted supporters of Mr Trump as they demonstrated on the second floor of the Capitol near the entrance to the Senate
A woman in the House gallery put on an ’emergency hood’
People were forced to shelter in the House gallery
The shocking pictures drew an appeal from Mr Biden to his soon-to-be-predecessor to “step up” and call off the protesters.
Mr Trump later urged them to “go home” and “respect our great people in law and order” but repeated claims the election was “stolen” – something that has been refuted multiple times in different US courts.
NBC reported several officials have said at least one improvised explosive device had been found on Capitol grounds.
A police officer shot pepper spray at a protestor attempting to enter the Capitol
Police held their guns up to a broken window as they attempted to secure the House chamber
Some protesters were forced to lie on the ground as armed police started to take control
A video showed some of those outside the building trying to break in by shattering the glass in windows
A security officer appealed to people to leave the Capitol
Earlier, Mr Trump turned on Vice President Mike Pence, accusing him of lacking courage for not intervening to refute the election result.
Their fortunes were also dealt a big blow when the Democrats’ second candidate in the Georgia Senate run-off race was projected to win – meaning Mr Biden will be in control of the Senate.
Police kept a watch on the demonstrators who remained outside the Capitol
A stand-off ensued when supporters of Mr Trump confronted police
Journalists and House press staff had to be evacuated by the Capitol
Papers and open packages of ’emergency escape hoods’ were left strewn on desks in the House