Trump condemns ‘terror’ in US after shooting near White House
United States President Donald Trump has condemned the shooting of two National Guard soldiers near the White House, describing the attack as “an act of evil, an act of hatred, and an act of terror.”
The President, speaking from Florida in a video message released hours after the Thanksgiving Eve incident, vowed to reassess all Afghans admitted into the U.S. under Joe Biden’s administration, particularly those who arrived through Operation Allies Welcome in 2021.
The attack took place near a busy subway station just blocks from the White House, forcing a temporary lockdown of the presidential residence. The suspected gunman, identified as Rahmanullah Lakanwal — an Afghan national — reportedly opened fire on two members of the West Virginia National Guard who were on patrol. A gunfight ensued before other troops subdued and arrested him.
READ ALSO: U.S. reportedly pressures Ukraine to consider Trump-backed peace framework with Russia
Officials described the incident as a deliberate ambush. Washington Mayor Muriel Bowser labeled it “a targeted shooting,” while DHS confirmed that the suspect entered the U.S. under a resettlement initiative for Afghans who assisted American forces during the Afghanistan conflict.
Following the attack, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced plans to deploy an additional 500 National Guard troops to Washington, raising the number of mobilised troops to over 2,500.
The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services also announced an indefinite suspension of all immigration applications for Afghan nationals pending a new security review.
READ ALSO: Trump criticises Nigerian government amid growing security challenges
The shooting adds tension to ongoing legal and political battles between Trump and Democratic-led states over the deployment of federal troops for domestic law enforcement. The President had earlier sent guardsmen to cities including Los Angeles, Portland, Chicago, and Memphis, actions critics claim were political and heavy-handed.
Beyond U.S. borders, Trump has also referenced Nigeria in recent statements, alleging widespread persecution of Christians and warning that American military intervention could be considered if the Nigerian government fails to act. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu responded that Nigeria remains committed to combating insecurity and upholding religious freedom through constitutional protections.
Tinubu stressed that terrorism is a global concern requiring international cooperation, affirming Nigeria’s dedication to protecting all citizens regardless of faith
Follow the Neptune Prime channel on WhatsApp:
Do you have breaking news, interview request, opinion, suggestion, or want your event covered? Email us at neptuneprime2233@gmail.com
