WASHINGTON — Some National Guard units deployed in the nation’s capital under President Donald Trump’s orders have begun carrying firearms. This change follows a directive from the defense secretary issued late last week. A Defense Department official, who spoke on the condition of anonymity, confirmed that certain units would be armed for specific missions, with some carrying handguns and others equipped with rifles.

The official stated that all personnel authorized to carry firearms have received training and are adhering to strict rules of engagement. An Associated Press photographer observed members of the South Carolina National Guard outside Union Station with holstered handguns on Sunday. A statement from the joint task force responsible for policing in Washington indicated that units started carrying their service weapons on Sunday. The military's guidelines specify that force should only be used as a last resort and in response to an imminent threat of death or serious bodily harm. The task force emphasized its commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of Washington residents.

This development marks a significant escalation in Trump’s efforts to exert federal control over local law enforcement, as he considers extending military deployments to other Democratic-led cities, including Baltimore, Chicago, and New York. Earlier on Sunday, Trump responded to Maryland Governor Wes Moore’s invitation to tour Baltimore by suggesting he might instead "send in the ‘troops.’"

Thousands of National Guard and federal law enforcement officers are currently patrolling the streets of Washington, prompting sporadic protests from local residents. The tensions escalated following a public exchange between Trump and Moore, who has criticized the president’s use of federal power to address crime and homelessness in the capital. Moore had invited Trump to Maryland to discuss public safety, but Trump claimed Moore's tone was "nasty and provocative" in a post on Truth Social.

Trump also referenced his previous deployment of National Guard troops in Los Angeles, which occurred despite opposition from California’s Democratic governor, Gavin Newsom. He stated, "Wes Moore’s record on Crime is a very bad one, unless he fudges his figures on crime like many of the other ‘Blue States’ are doing." Moore countered that he invited Trump to Maryland because the president seems unaware of the improving crime rates in Baltimore.

City data shows that Baltimore's violent crime rate has decreased significantly since a spike during the pandemic. The number of homicides fell by 24% last year compared to the previous year and by 42% since 2021. Overall violent crime dropped nearly 8% and property crimes decreased by 20% between 2023 and 2024.

In Washington, the increased military presence has led to a mix of protests and quiet streets. Videos of arrests and detainments have circulated on social media, highlighting the tension in the city. Trump has indicated that Chicago and New York are likely next on his list for military intervention, which has drawn strong opposition from Democratic leaders in those states.

Reports suggest that the Pentagon has been preparing for a potential operation in Chicago, which could involve National Guard troops and possibly active-duty forces. Trump stated, "I think Chicago will be our next," and added, "And then we’ll help with New York."

Critics, including the Rev. Al Sharpton, have voiced concerns about the implications of the National Guard's presence in Washington, suggesting it is more about profiling than crime prevention. Sharpton remarked, "This is laced with bigotry and racism," emphasizing that no white mayors have been targeted for military intervention.

Illinois Governor JB Pritzker stated there is no emergency justifying the deployment of National Guard troops in Chicago, accusing Trump of attempting to manufacture a crisis. Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson echoed this sentiment, asserting that the city does not require a military presence and would take legal action to prevent it. "We’re not going to surrender our humanity to this tyrant," Johnson said.