National Guard troops activated by President Donald Trump arrived at the Washington Monument on Tuesday. This deployment is part of Trump's initiative to combat what he describes as "out of control" crime in the capital.

Col. Dave Butler, an Army spokesperson, stated that the troops will assist local law enforcement with logistics, transportation, and administrative tasks. They will also maintain a visible presence around the National Mall. "That's part of our assignment – to go to the national monuments and be present," Butler said.

The deployment of troops on U.S. soil is permissible under certain conditions. The president can call service members to active duty during extraordinary crises. However, their roles are limited to protecting federal personnel and property unless an insurrection is declared, which has not occurred in this case.

The necessity of having U.S. troops stationed along the National Mall remains unclear, as the area is generally considered safe and frequented by tourists and school groups. Butler noted that while the troops will have access to weapons, they will not carry them during their deployment.

Trump has been vocal about his concerns regarding crime in Washington, D.C. On Monday, he held a press conference announcing his intention to take control of the D.C. police department and activate the National Guard. He stated, "Something's out of control. But we're going to put it in control very quickly, like we did in the southern border. I'm announcing a historic action to rescue our nation's capital from crime, bloodshed, bedlam and squalor and worse. This is Liberation Day in D.C., and we're going to take our capital back."

The president's control over the D.C. police force is temporary, expiring in 30 days, after which Congress will need to intervene. Earlier on Tuesday, an Army spokesperson indicated that the Guard troops had not yet received specific missions beyond supporting law enforcement. It is anticipated that the service will require the remainder of the week to account for the 800 troops and prepare for deployment next week.

The Guard troops will operate under the Standing Rules for the Use of Force, which allow for self-defense while emphasizing de-escalation techniques. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth mentioned on Fox News that the activated Guard troops will have "broad latitude" under existing authorities but will not engage in law enforcement activities.

Earlier this year, Trump had also activated Guard personnel in Los Angeles to assist immigration agents during raids. In various regions, Guard members have been mobilized to support law enforcement with administrative duties.