President Donald Trump has ordered an extra 500 National Guard troops into Washington, D.C., following the shooting that left two guardsmen critically wounded near the White House.
The decision was announced shortly after officials labeled the attack a targeted ambush. The two soldiers, members of the West Virginia National Guard, were patrolling near 17th and I Streets NW when a gunman opened fire. The suspect was shot and taken into custody, while both guardsmen were rushed to the hospital in critical condition.
Defense officials said the reinforcement is intended to strengthen security around key areas of the capital and support ongoing patrol operations. With the new deployment, the Guard presence in Washington is expected to surpass 2,500 personnel.
The move has sparked renewed debate over the expanding use of federal troops in the city, particularly as legal challenges and political scrutiny continue to build.