Washington: The Trump administration has ordered the deployment of 500 additional National Guard troops to the nation’s capital after two soldiers were shot and critically injured near the White House on November 26. The decision marks an escalation in federal security efforts as investigators work to determine the motive behind the attack.
Two National Guard Soldiers Shot Near White House
The shooting occurred on Wednesday evening just a few blocks from the White House, where two National Guard personnel on duty were struck by gunfire. Law enforcement officials confirmed that at least one of the soldiers returned fire before the suspect was taken into custody at the scene.
Both soldiers were rushed to a nearby hospital and remain in critical condition. Their identities have not yet been released as families are being notified.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Metropolitan Police Department are jointly handling the investigation. Early indications suggest the attacker may have targeted uniformed personnel, though officials have not announced formal charges. Authorities continue to examine the suspect’s background and possible motive.
Additional Troops Deployed Under ‘Operation Capital Shield’
The incident took place during a period of heightened alert in the District, following President Trump’s earlier directive to bolster troop presence in the capital. As part of Operation Capital Shield, approximately 2,200 National Guard members had already been deployed to assist with security amid concerns over rising crime.
Within hours of the shooting, President Donald Trump authorized the deployment of an additional 500 National Guard troops to Washington. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth confirmed the order during a press briefing in the Dominican Republic, stating that the decision was made to reinforce security and protect federal personnel.
“This will only stiffen our resolve to ensure that we make Washington D.C. safe and beautiful,” Hegseth said.
The new deployment brings the total number of Guard members in the District to roughly 2,700. According to the Defense Department, the additional personnel will be stationed at high-priority locations, including federal buildings, transportation routes, and major public areas. Officials noted that the deployment is temporary and will be reassessed as the security situation evolves.
Under federal law, the President has direct authority over the District of Columbia National Guard. While Guard deployments in U.S. states typically require consent from state governors under Title 32 of the U.S. Code, Washington D.C.’s non-state status places command authority directly under the President through 32 U.S.C. § 502(f).
Legal Context and Ongoing Review
The use of National Guard forces in domestic security operations remains a subject of legal scrutiny. The Posse Comitatus Act restricts federal military involvement in civilian law enforcement, but National Guard units operating under state or presidential authority are not bound by the same limitations.
Civil liberties groups have expressed concerns about the expanded military presence, citing possible implications for public freedoms. Federal officials, however, maintain that the deployment is aimed at protecting government facilities and personnel during an active investigation.
The Department of Justice has not yet confirmed whether federal charges will be filed against the suspect. Investigators are assessing whether the case could involve federal terrorism statutes, depending on the evidence gathered. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia is expected to provide updates once preliminary findings are finalized.
