Apple CEO Tim Cook Addresses ICE Killings in Minneapolis

Cook shares internal memo with employees, speaks with President about deescalation

Jan. 27, 2026 at 10:15pm

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After facing criticism for his silence, Apple CEO Tim Cook has addressed the recent shooting of Alex Pretti by ICE agents in Minneapolis. In an internal memo shared with employees, Cook expressed his heartbreak over the events and called for deescalation, stating that he had a conversation with the President where he shared his views on the matter.

Why it matters

The shooting of Alex Pretti and the ongoing protests and violence in Minneapolis have sparked outrage and demands for accountability. As the CEO of one of the world's most influential tech companies, Cook's response, or lack thereof, has been closely watched by Apple fans and the public. His internal memo and communication with the President suggest an attempt to address the situation, though his words may ring hollow to those frustrated with the ongoing events.

The details

In the internal memo, Cook expressed his heartbreak over the events in Minneapolis and said his "prayers and deepest sympathies are with the families, with the communities, and with everyone that's been affected." He called for deescalation, stating that "America is strongest when we live up to our highest ideals, when we treat everyone with dignity and respect no matter who they are or where they're from, and when we embrace our shared humanity." Cook also mentioned that he had a "good conversation" with the President where he shared his views on the issue.

  • On Saturday, billionaires, executives, and members of the Trump administration attended a screening of the "Melania" film, which was seen as insensitive amid the ongoing situation in Minneapolis.
  • After a weekend filled with protests and continued violence in the streets of Minneapolis, many wondered if Cook and others would speak out.
  • On Tuesday evening, Cook shared his thoughts on the situation in an internal memo to Apple employees.

The players

Tim Cook

The CEO of Apple, one of the world's most influential tech companies.

Alex Pretti

The individual who was tragically shot by ICE agents in Minneapolis.

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What they’re saying

“I'm heartbroken by the events in Minneapolis, and my prayers and deepest sympathies are with the families, with the communities, and with everyone that's been affected.”

— Tim Cook, Apple CEO

“This is a time for deescalation. I believe America is strongest when we live up to our highest ideals, when we treat everyone with dignity and respect no matter who they are or where they're from, and when we embrace our shared humanity.”

— Tim Cook, Apple CEO

What’s next

Cook stated that he had a "good conversation" with the President where he shared his views on the issue, suggesting that further discussions and potential actions may follow.

The takeaway

Cook's internal memo and communication with the President indicate an attempt to address the ongoing situation in Minneapolis, though his words may be seen as insufficient by those frustrated with the lack of meaningful action and accountability. As the CEO of a prominent tech company, Cook's response will continue to be closely watched by Apple fans and the public.