Trump Labels Attack on National Guardsmen in Washington, D.C. as Terrorism

Following a violent incident in Washington, D.C., United States President Donald Trump has classified the recent shooting targeting members of the National Guard as an act of terrorism. In an official address to the nation, Trump underscored the severity of the attack, emphasizing that it poses a significant threat to national security.

On Wednesday afternoon, local authorities reported that a gunman opened fire on two National Guardsmen near the White House. According to information provided by FBI Director Kash Patel and Washington, D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser during a press briefing, both victims are currently in critical condition. Mayor Bowser characterized the shooting as a deliberate and targeted assault, while details regarding the shooter's motive have not yet been disclosed by investigators.

Preliminary reports indicate that the suspected perpetrator arrived in the United States from Afghanistan in September 2021. President Trump, referencing the Department of Homeland Security, suggested that the suspect's background is part of a broader security concern. Trump described Afghanistan as a region facing severe challenges and asserted that large numbers of individuals from various countries have entered the U.S. without adequate screening during the previous administration.

In response to the attack, the President announced plans to re-examine the backgrounds of all individuals who entered the U.S. from Afghanistan during the tenure of his predecessor. Trump further stated that additional measures would be implemented to ensure that foreign nationals who do not meet strict criteria or contribute positively to the country would be subject to removal.

Immediately following the incident, the Department of Defense was directed to deploy approximately 500 additional National Guard personnel to strengthen security throughout the capital. This move aims to reinforce ongoing efforts to maintain public safety and prevent further acts of violence.

Authorities from the Washington, D.C. police department provided further information on the sequence of events. According to their account, the assailant approached from a nearby intersection close to the Farragut West Metro station. Upon arriving at the scene, the individual fired upon the two National Guardsmen. Other National Guard members in proximity responded swiftly, apprehending the suspect after he fell to the ground. Law enforcement officers arrived moments later to take the suspect into custody.

The incident has reignited discussions regarding security procedures in Washington, D.C., and the deployment of the National Guard in major urban centers. The investigation into the shooter's motives and background remains ongoing, with authorities declining to speculate until further evidence is gathered.

Officials have reiterated their commitment to upholding security in the nation's capital, vowing to take all necessary steps to protect residents and federal personnel in the wake of this attack. The public is urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity as the investigation continues.