John Boehner: ‘We will not be intimidated by those who seek violence, repression and fear’

House Speaker John A. Boehner said the House of Representatives sends its “strongest support” to the Canadian people, government and Parliament in the wake of deadly attacks that have taken place this week.

“While we are still seeking answers as to the motivation and intention of the attacks on Canadian forces and on the Parliament over the last two days, Prime Minister [Stephen] Harper and Speaker [Andrew] Scheer have and will continue to have friends and allies in the U.S. Congress who are prepared to stand shoulder to shoulder with them against our common enemies and who are prepared to move forward in our aims to improve the quality of life and economic opportunities for both our countries,” said Mr. Boehner, Ohio Republican.

A gunman, who was later fatally shot by Sergeant-at-Arms Kevin Vickers, launched an attack Wednesday in Ottawa, killing one soldier guarding a war memorial before barging into the capital city’s Parliament amid a hail of gunfire.

The Canadian soldier, identified as Cpl. Nathan Cirillo, was the second killed in three days in Canada, and the gunman, Michael Zehaf-Bibeau, was reportedly a recent convert to Islam.

Mr. Harper has identified the gunman as a terrorist. A hit-and-run that left one soldier dead and another injured Monday has been deemed a terrorist attack by Canadian officials.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with the families of the fallen and injured, as well as the families and friends who endured uncertainty today while waiting to receive confirmation that their loved ones were safe,” Mr. Boehner said.

“The world is growing more complex and dangerous by the day, but we will not be intimidated by those who seek violence, repression and fear. Our common cause and fight — dignity and freedom for all — will always persevere, even during the darkest of times,” he said.