Washington, 22 September 2025 (dpa/MIA) - US President Donald Trump called right-wing activist Charlie Kirk a "martyr for American freedom," at a memorial service in the south-western state of Arizona, saying he was killed by a "radicalized, cold-blooded monster for speaking the truth."

The memorial service was held Sunday at a football stadium in Glendale, where Charlie Kirk last lived with his family.

Trump said the 31-year-old was targeted because he stood "for freedom and justice, for God, country, for reason and common sense," adding that the attack had made Charlie Kirk "immortal."

Charlie Kirk was shot dead at an event at a university in the state of Utah on Sept. 10. The alleged perpetrator, a 22-year-old man, was arrested a short time later and charged with murder. He faces the death penalty.

Charlie Kirk's widow, Erika, delivered a more than 20-minute speech forgiving her husband's alleged killer. "That man, that young man, I forgive him. I forgive him because it was what Christ did and is what Charlie would do," she said, adding that the answer to hate is love, as taught in the Gospel.

Trump meanwhile noted that, unlike Erika Kirk, he does not wish his opponents well, saying: "I hate my opponents... I am sorry, Erika."

At the end of his speech, Trump embraced Erika Kirk, who rested her head against his chest several times as they held hands.

Right-wing commentator Benny Johnson in his speech urged the crowd to marry and have children, saying "by doing that we can create millions and millions and millions of Charlie Kirks and we can save our land."

Tens of thousands of guests attended the event, with many already gathering outside in the early morning, chanting "USA" and wearing red, white or blue as requested by his organization, Turning Point USA. An additional hall was set up for those who could not fit inside.

Several other government officials attended. Tech billionaire Elon Musk was also present. Reporters noted that two planes were used to transport White House personnel from Washington due to the large number of attendees.

Attendees went through extensive security checks. According to US media reports, the Department of Homeland Security rated the memorial at a risk level comparable to the Super Bowl or the New York City Marathon. The podium on stage was shielded by bulletproof glass.

Charlie Kirk's killing has had unexpected and significant political repercussions in the United States and provoked concerns over Trump and US Vice President JD Vance's calls to punish people who condone or rejoice over the activist's death. Critics say such speech is protected under the US Constitution's First Amendment.

Charlie Kirk was very close to Trump's government and his family. The activist founded the Turning Point USA organization in 2012, which is now active at numerous schools and universities.

Through his platforms -- including a successful podcast -- Charlie Kirk reached an audience of millions, especially young people. Critics accused him of spreading racist, homophobic and sexist views.