Tensions have reached boiling point in the United States as Congress meets to certify Joe Biden as the next President.

Thousands of supporters of President Donald Trump, contesting the election results, have marched on Washington DC.

Guns were drawn by security in the US House chamber as protesters attempt to break through.

One woman has died after being shot inside the US Capitol Building.

Police and the National Guard are now forcing the protesters away from Capitol Hill, and authorities have declared the Capitol complex “secure” as a curfew comes into effect.

A protestor stands in the well of the Senate. Unbelievable. @9NewsAUS pic.twitter.com/JxfHgTqIW3

— Charles Croucher (@ccroucher9) January 6, 2021

The President has responded with a tweet calling on his supporters to remain peaceful and respect police.

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!

— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 6, 2021

Nine’s US correspondent Amelia Adams told Chris Smith thousands of rioters chanted ‘stop the steal’ as they gathered at the entries to the Capitol.

“We have found a big reinforced line of Metropolitan Police, which is encouraging to see because I have to tell you, it is the first law enforcement I have seen in a couple of hours.”

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President-elect Joe Biden has addressed the nation, calling on President Trump to “demand an end to this siege”.

“What we’re seeing are a small number of extremists, dedicated to lawlessness.

“This is not dissent, it’s disorder, it’s chaos. It borders on sedition, and it must end now.

“It’s not protest, it’s insurrection. The world is watching.”

In a video message posted to Twitter, President Trump told supporters “I know your pain, I know your hurt … but you have to go home now”.

https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1346928882595885058

Prime Minister Scott Morrison has also now issued a statement condemning the violence in the US.

Very distressing scenes at the US Congress. We condemn these acts of violence and look forward to a peaceful transfer of Government to the newly elected administration in the great American democratic tradition.

— Scott Morrison (@ScoMo30) January 6, 2021

EARLIER:

From the base of the Capitol Building, Amelia Adams told Chris protestors have scaled walls, balconies, and forced their way past barricades and police.

“There are now protestors inside the US Capitol Building. The House and the Senate have both taken a recess.

“It is a very tense situation. There are a number of buildings that have been evacuated, there were reports of some suspicious packages, there’s tear gas – I’ve just seen a flare as I talk to you as well.”

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Image: Twitter/Amelia Adams