WORLD NEWS

Trump Claims Victory in LA as Troops Suppress Anti-Deportation Protests

Trump says LA is “safe and sound” after deploying National Guard & Marines to suppress anti-deportation protests. Governor Newsom opposes the move as California braces for legal showdown.
2025-06-12
Trump Claims Victory in LA as Troops Suppress Anti-Deportation Protests

Los Angeles, June 12 — U.S. President Donald Trump on Thursday claimed that Los Angeles was now “safe and sound” after his decision to deploy thousands of National Guard troops and active-duty Marines to control days-long anti-deportation protests in the city.

The protests erupted following a sharp escalation in immigration raids and enforcement actions, sparking citywide outrage and mobilizing thousands into the streets. While mostly peaceful, several incidents of violence were reported, including the burning of self-driving taxis and clashes with police.

In a post on Truth Social, Trump hailed the military response:

“Our great National Guard, with a little help from the Marines, put the LA Police in a position to effectively do their job.”

Without the military, Trump warned, Los Angeles “would be a crime scene like we haven’t seen in years.”

Federal vs State Tensions

The decision to deploy federal troops without state approval has ignited constitutional concerns and set up a legal confrontation with California Governor Gavin Newsom, who called the deployment unauthorized and “an attack on state sovereignty.”

“He [Newsom] had totally lost control of the situation,” Trump asserted. “He should be saying thank you … instead of trying to justify his mistakes and incompetence!!!”

California is reportedly preparing for a legal battle over the federal incursion, raising concerns about the limits of presidential authority in domestic law enforcement.

City Under Curfew

Los Angeles imposed a second night of curfew as local leaders attempted to curb the after-dark vandalism and looting that marred a few blocks across the 1,300 sq km metropolis. Residents expressed both relief and apprehension over the heavy military presence.

“This feels like martial law,” said one protester near downtown LA. “We want rights, not rifles.”

National Ripple Effect

Protests against the immigration crackdown have since spread to cities across the U.S., including New York, Chicago, and Seattle, with many Americans condemning what they view as authoritarian overreach and the militarization of immigration policy.

The president’s move marks the first time in decades that a U.S. leader has deployed active-duty military personnel in defiance of a state government.

Civil rights organizations and legal experts warn the situation could lead to a landmark judicial ruling on federal authority versus state rights.