5:32Military vehicles from the Washington, DC National Guard are stationed close to the Washington Monument on August 12, 2025, in Washington, DC. The Trump administration has commenced a federal takeover of D.C. police and activated the D.C. National Guard, asserting that these actions are essential for reinstating order in the city. City officials have stated they were unaware of the plans beforehand.Win Mcnamee/Getty Images
National Guard personnel summoned to active duty by President Donald Trump made their appearance at the base of the Washington Monument on Tuesday as part of his strategy to combat what he describes as “out of control” crime in the capital of the nation.
Col. Dave Butler, a spokesperson for the Army, indicated that the troops were summoned to assist local law enforcement with logistical support, transportation, and administrative responsibilities, in addition to maintaining a visible presence around the National Mall.
"That's part of our assignment – to go to the national monuments and be present," he conveyed to ABC News.
Military vehicles from the Washington, DC National Guard are stationed close to the Washington Monument on August 12, 2025, in Washington, DC. The Trump administration has commenced a federal takeover of D.C. police and activated the D.C. National Guard, asserting that these actions are essential for reinstating order in the city. City officials have stated they were unaware of the plans beforehand.Win Mcnamee/Getty Images
The deployment of troops on U.S. territory is permissible to a certain degree, as the president possesses the authority to mobilize service members during times of significant crisis. However, their responsibilities are also confined to safeguarding federal personnel and properties unless the president declares an insurrection, which has not occurred.
It was not immediately apparent why the presence of U.S. troops along the National Mall was deemed necessary, aside from demonstrating Trump's directives. The area, characterized by museums, monuments, and expansive green spaces, is recognized as a relatively secure section of the city that primarily attracts tourists and school groups.
National Guard troops are dispatched to the Washington Monument as part of President Trump’s mobilization of law enforcement on August 12, 2025, in Washington, DC.Andrew Leyden/Getty Images
The troops are anticipated to have access to weapons but will not carry them, Butler stated.
Members of the Washington, DC National Guard patrol near the Washington Monument on August 12, 2025, in Washington, DC. The Trump administration has initiated a federal takeover of D.C. police and mobilized the D.C. National Guard, asserting that these actions are essential for reinstating order in the city. City officials have stated they were unaware of the plans beforehand.Win Mcnamee/Getty Images
Trump has expressed strong criticism regarding what he refers to as rampant crime in D.C. On Monday, he convened a press conference to announce his intention to take control of the Washington, D.C., police department and activate troops from the D.C. National Guard.
Officials indicated that 100 Guard troops reported for duty on Tuesday, with additional personnel expected throughout the week.
National Guard troops are dispatched to the Washington Monument as part of President Trump’s mobilization of law enforcement on August 12, 2025, in Washington, DC.Andrew Leyden/Getty Images
Sourse: abcnews.go.com
