5 armored vehicles carrying National Guard troops appeared on the streets of Washington, D.C. on the evening of 12/8. Officials stated this was the first group of 800 guardsmen being deployed, with the remainder expected to arrive in the coming days.

CNN reported the armored vehicles traveled under police escort and assembled near the Washington Monument. The troops' mission was not disclosed, and they declined to be interviewed.

The deployment followed President Donald Trump's directive, claiming direct control over the Washington, D.C. police and ordering the National Guard to "liberate the city" from violent crime.

According to White House officials, federal forces will collaborate with the Washington, D.C. police to conduct patrols and checks in busy traffic areas and hotspots.

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated that on the night of 11/8, around 850 police officers and federal agents were deployed across the capital as part of an intensified law enforcement campaign. The operation resulted in roughly 23 arrests on various charges, and the confiscation of 6 handguns.

"This is just the beginning. Over the next month, the Trump administration will relentlessly pursue and apprehend violent criminals who break the law, disrupt public safety, and endanger citizens," Leavitt said.

The press secretary added that homeless individuals in the capital could be taken to shelters and offered addiction or mental health services.

"If they refuse, they will face fines or jail time. These are pre-existing laws that have been enacted but not enforced," Leavitt said.

National Guard armored vehicle in Washington, D.C. on 12/8. Photo: *Reuters*

Washington, D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser, wary of the federal government's actions, called President Trump's move "authoritarian" and urged residents to protect their rights, including ensuring a Democratic victory in the House in 2026.

Bowser had hoped the National Guard would be confined to federal areas within the capital, such as parks, monuments, and federal buildings.

Washington, D.C. is typically governed by the District of Columbia government, overseen by the U.S. Congress. However, on 11/8, President Trump declared a public safety emergency in Washington, D.C., invoking Section 740 of the Home Rule Act to deploy federal forces.

Federal law grants Trump control over the Washington, D.C. police for 30 days. Extending this requires congressional approval, which Democrats are likely to block.

Ngoc Anh (*Guardian, CNN, AP*)