Trump lauds conservative ‘giant’ Kirk at massive memorial event

US President Donald Trump on Sunday called slain right-wing activist Charlie Kirk "a giant of his generation" at a massive memorial event marked by strong Christian rhetoric and praise for the man many speakers referred to as a “martyr.”

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A woman writes 'WE ARE CHARLIE' in chalk as she visits a tribute for slain conservative commentator Charlie Kirk at the headquarters of Turning Point USA, in Phoenix, Arizona. - REUTERS

(REUTERS)

The 79-year-old Republican said Kirk was "above all a devoted husband, father, son, Christian and patriot," adding that he "was violently killed because he spoke for freedom and justice. For God and country. For reason and for common sense."

The service drew an extraordinary level of attention and security, with the top brass of Trump’s administration joining tens of thousands in attendance, and some US media likening it to a state funeral.

Ahead of Trump’s address, the crowd heard speeches from prominent cabinet members including Vice President JD Vance, Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth.

"You thought you could kill Charlie Kirk? You have made him immortal,” top Trump adviser Stephen Miller said, vowing "to save this civilisation, to save the West."

Among other speakers were right-wing media personality Tucker Carlson, Trump's Chief of Staff Susie Wiles and Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard.

The event was being hosted by Turning Point USA, the hugely influential youth political campaign group founded by Kirk that is now run by his widow, Erika Kirk, who also spoke at the memorial.