On 10 September 2025, well-known US political blogger and activist Charlie Kirk was fatally shot while delivering a speech at Valley University in Utah. A man opened fire around 20 minutes into Kirk’s address, striking him in the neck. According to reports from The WP Times, citing renewz.de, Fox News and NBC News, the suspected gunman was immediately detained by police.

NBC News noted that Kirk had planned to host “an energetic evening with a candid conversation about conservative values”. Panic broke out among attendees as the shots were fired. Initially, his condition was unclear, but soon after the incident, President Donald Trump urged Americans to pray for Kirk’s recovery. Hours later, at 23:47 local time, Trump announced on his platform Truth Social that Kirk had died of his injuries.

“He was loved and admired by all, especially by me. Melania and I send our condolences to his wonderful wife Erika and to his family. Charlie, we love you!” – Donald Trump on Truth Social

Who was Charlie Kirk

Born in 1993 in Arlington Heights, Illinois, Charlie James Kirk rose to prominence as one of the most outspoken conservative voices in the United States. At just 18 years old, he founded Turning Point USA (TPUSA), a student organisation aiming to challenge what he described as “left-wing indoctrination” at American universities.

He went on to host The Charlie Kirk Show, one of the most listened-to political podcasts in the country, and became a regular speaker at Republican Party conventions. Kirk was a close ally of Donald Trump and an ardent supporter of Republican values.

Kirk was known for his sharp criticism of liberal ideas, opposition to abortion, strong stance on border security, and his repeated calls to end American financial aid to Ukraine. His influence among young conservatives grew rapidly through social media, where he amassed millions of followers.

However, Kirk was also a divisive figure. The Ukrainian Centre for Countering Disinformation accused him of amplifying Russian propaganda narratives in the United States. While critics labelled him a populist and provocateur, supporters hailed him as a defender of freedom and American tradition.

Notable quotes by Charlie Kirk

  • “The future of America will not be decided in Washington, but on our campuses.”
  • “We need less government and more individual responsibility.”
  • “Every dollar for Ukraine is a dollar not spent on securing our borders.”
  • “Conservatism is not about looking backwards, it’s about building the future on strong values.”
  • “Freedom is never guaranteed – it must be defended every single day.”

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