BRUSSELS—Attackers detonated bombs at the airport and on a metro train beneath the European Union’s capital on Tuesday, killing at least 26 people and confirming the worst fears of European officials, who proclaimed the continent at war.
Two explosions, at least one likely caused by a suicide bomber, hit the departures area of Brussels’ Zaventem airport during the busy morning rush, collapsing the ceiling and sending panicked travelers rushing for cover. Belgian Health Minister Maggie de Block told Belgian media that 11 people were killed and 81 injured.
An hour later, another 15 people were killed and 55 injured in an explosion on a subway train not far from the headquarters of the European Union, a spokesman for the Brussels Metro said.
“What we feared has happened,” Belgian Prime Minister Charles Michel told reporters. “In this time of tragedy, this black moment for our country, I appeal to everyone to remain calm but also to show solidarity.”
Belgium raised its terror alert to the highest level, diverting planes and trains and ordering people to stay where they were. Airports across Europe immediately tightened security.
“We are at war,” French Prime Minister Manuel Valls said after a crisis meeting called by the French president. “We have been subjected for the last few months in Europe to acts of war.”
