Joe Biden has called for peace in the Capitol and called out Donald Trump, telling the outgoing president to "demand an end to this siege".
As protesters clash with police officers and breach the Capitol building - forcing a lockdown with members of Congress inside - The US President-elect has delivered a national address.
Watch President-elect Joe Biden's address below:In an address from Wilmington, Delaware, Biden says: "At this hour, our democracy is under unprecedented assault, unlike anything we’ve seen in modern times"
He adds: "The words of a president matter, no matter how good or bad that president is".
Biden also added that he is saddened at the violent demonstrations, stating: "This is not dissent, it's disorder."
"It’s not a protest; it’s insurrection. The world is watching."
In a series of follow-up tweets, Biden wrote: "Let me be very clear: the scenes of chaos at the Capitol do not represent who we are. What we are seeing is a small number of extremists dedicated to lawlessness. This is not dissent, it's disorder. It borders on sedition, and it must end. Now.
"I call on President Trump to go on national television now to fulfill his oath and defend the Constitution by demanding an end to this siege.
"America is so much better than what we’re seeing today."
In response to the riots, Trump has since tweeted: "Please support our Capitol Police and Law Enforcement. They are truly on the side of our Country. Stay peaceful!"
In a follow-up tweet, the outgoing president wrote:
"I am asking for everyone at the U.S. Capitol to remain peaceful. No violence! Remember, WE are the Party of Law & Order – respect the Law and our great men and women in Blue. Thank you!"
As reported by ABC News and CNBC, the Senate has been forced to recess after Trump supporters stormed the Capitol building.
CNBC states: "Vice President Mike Pence was ushered out of the Senate as the U.S. Capitol Complex went into lockdown."
US Capitol Police have since told those still inside the building: "If you are in a public space, find a place to hide or seek cover."
Additionally, the Senate chamber was also evacuated and lawmakers have been instructed to stay away from exterior doors and windows.
The New York Times has reported in the last hour that police officers have been forced to draw their guns inside the House chambers.
