DONALD TRUMP has finally conceded defeat in the US election and pledged to facilitate a “smooth, seamless and orderly transition” of power.
In a sensational U-turn on his previous statements, the President also hit out at those of his supporters who were involved in the riots in the US Capitol, describing the incident as a “heinous attack”.
Though he refused to mention President-Elect Joe Biden by name, Trump said he would ensure an orderly transition takes place on January 20th.
Speaking in a video posted on Twitter, Trump said: "Now Congress has certified the results, a new Administration will be inaugurated on January 20."
It marks the first time Trump has acknowledged he will not be serving a second term as president, even though he did not explicitly state it.
"My focus now turns to ensuring a smooth, orderly and seamless transition of power," he added.
Despite his role in inciting the riots seen in Washington DC, the President called for "healing and reconciliation".
"We have just been through an intense election and emotions are high," he said.
"But now tempers must be cooled and calm restored.
"We must get on with the business of America."
He did, however, defend his decision to "vigorously pursue every avenue to contest the election results" adding that his "only goal was to ensure the integrity of the vote".
"I was fighting to defend American democracy," he said.
The remarks come amid growing calls among Democrats for Trump to be impeached before he leaves office.
Hundreds of pro-Trump supporters overpowered police and security to storm the Capitol Building where Republicans and Democrats had met to ratify Biden’s victory.
Five people died during the violent scenes that unfolded in the hours that followed including one woman who was shot by police.
A police officer also died while three others suffered fatal “medical emergencies”.
Police have confirmed the identities of those who died as Ashli Babbitt, 35, of Maryland, Benjamin Phillips 50, of Schuylkill Pennsylvania, Kevin Greeson, 55, of Alabama, Rosanne Boylan, 34, of Georgia and Officer Brian Sicknick.
Commenting on the shocking scenes witnessed across the world, Trump said he was “outraged by the violence, lawlessness and mayhem.”
"America is and must always be a nation of law and order,” he continued.
"The demonstators who infiltrated the nation's capital have defiled the seat of American democracy."
Trump distanced himself from those who engaged in the violence and destruction witnessed during the riot, telling followers they "do not represent our country".
"And to those who broke the law, you will pay," he continued.
"This moment calls for healing and reconciliation."
“Serving as your president has been the honor of my lifetime,” Trump said.
“And to all of my wonderful supporters, I know you are disappointed. But I also want you to know that our incredible journey is only just beginning.”
Image: TwitterHis remarks stand in stark contrast with the comments made on social media just 25 hours earlier when Trump described those involved as “special” and said “we love you.”
“These are the things and events that happen when a sacred landslide election victory is so unceremoniously & viciously stripped away," he wrote in another Tweet that was deleted.
The remarks saw Trump banned from several major social media platforms.
He has since returned to Twitter following a 12-hour freeze on his account.
Despite the apparent contrition, DC Mayor Muriel Bowser believes Trump "must be held accountable” for his role in the unfolding violence.
"The current President must be held accountable for this unprecedented attack on our democracy," Bowser said.
"What happened yesterday is what he wanted to happen and we must not underestimate the damage he can do to our nation and our democracy over the next two weeks."
See More: Donald Trump, Joe Biden, US Election
