Washington National Guard Units Start Carrying Firearms Amid Trump Deployment Threats

WASHINGTON D.C (WMF News)— Some National Guard units in Washington, D.C., have begun carrying firearms while patrolling the city under orders from President Donald Trump. This follows a directive from the Defense Department last week.

A Defense Department official, speaking anonymously, confirmed that some units are armed with handguns or rifles and are trained to use force only as a last resort in response to imminent threats of death or serious injury.

An AP photographer saw members of the South Carolina National Guard outside Union Station with holstered handguns according to AP report. The joint task force overseeing security in the capital stated that only certain missions require troops to carry weapons, while others, such as administrative or transportation roles, remain unarmed.

The deployment underscores heightened security measures as Trump threatens to extend National Guard presence to additional cities. Officials emphasize protecting the safety and wellbeing of residents while maintaining strict use-of-force guidelines.

—Published by WMF News