Trump Says HK "looking For Democracy"

US President Donald Trump said on Monday that protesters who stormed Hong Kong's Legislative Council want democracy for the territory.

"Well, they're looking for democracy and I think most people want democracy. Unfortunately, some governments don't want democracy," Trump told reporters at the White House.

"That's what it's all about. It's all about democracy. There's nothing better."

Earlier, Trump said the unrest in Hong Kong was "very sad."

Earlier, a US State Department spokeswoman said: "We urge all sides to refrain from violence."

"Hong Kong's success is predicated on its rule of law and respect for fundamental freedoms, including freedoms of expression and peaceful assembly," she said.

The United States has voiced solidarity with activists who succeeded in blocking – for now – a move by Hong Kong's pro-Beijing administration to allow extraditions to the mainland.

During recent protests, police faced accusations of using excessive violence against protesters after firing tear gas and rubber bullets to break up marches.

Earlier on Monday, masked protesters broke away from peaceful crowds and broke into the Legislative Council building, daubing its walls with anti-government graffiti. (AFP)