Trump activates National Guard in Washington: Arming causes chaos!

Trump activates National Guard in Washington: Arming causes chaos!

In Washington D.C. There is currently a tense atmosphere: US President Donald Trump has decided to deploy the National Guard in the capital in order to supposedly counteract rising crime and homelessness. From Sunday evening, August 25, 2025, the soldiers will even be armed, which will further inflame the situation. According to information from Northern Courier National Guardsmen are authorized to use their weapons for self-defense. Trump's critical comments about the city, which he described as a "rat hole," are not helping to ease tensions.

Under the direction of Democratic Mayor Muriel Bowser, who has sharply criticized the deployment of soldiers, the current situation in Washington looks quite polarized. Although there are statistics that show no increase in crime, Trump is still seen by his supporters as someone who wants to create “order.” Critics, on the other hand, see his measures as mere show and have already organized protests against this military presence.

The role of the National Guard

Trump plans to deploy the National Guard not only in Washington, but also in Chicago, the third largest city in the United States. So reported ZDF that the Pentagon is expecting a major operation in Chicago as early as September. As in Washington, the city's government is under Democratic control, which leads to tensions. Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson and Illinois Governor JB Pritzker have spoken out against these plans and accused Trump of political speculation.

The deployment of the National Guard in Chicago could mobilize thousands of soldiers. Trump emphasizes that this step is intended to combat crime, homelessness and illegal immigration. But the reality is more complex: In Washington, for example, the soldiers were positioned in tourist hotspots, not in areas with a high potential for violence. What is certain is that the White House and the Pentagon have so far refused to discuss these upcoming operations in detail.

Ongoing controversy

This is not the first time that Trump has ordered the National Guard in cities with Democratic leadership. Soldiers were sent to Los Angeles as early as June 2025 - also against the wishes of the local governor. There were already legal disputes about the legality of such measures back then, which could also be on the agenda for Washington in the coming weeks, where a federal judge is scheduled to appear.

Ultimately, it should be borne in mind that the president's interventions in local police structures are perceived by many as excessive. The deployment of the National Guard in Washington, Chicago and possibly other cities remains a hotly debated topic that has inflamed tempers. Observers agree: The coming months could be crucial in clarifying whether this military step is considered necessary or a violation of the law daily news reported.