Washington, DC/Los Angeles (National Times): US President Donald Trump has vowed that “order will be restored” and that Los Angeles “will be set free”, as protests erupted across the city following sweeping immigration raids by federal agents. The president has directed top federal officials to take “all necessary action” to end what he described as a “migrant invasion” and “riots”.
The protests broke out after U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents conducted coordinated raids across Los Angeles, leading to the arrest of dozens of undocumented immigrants. In response to escalating unrest, Trump authorized the deployment of 2,000 National Guard troops to the city.
“A once-great American city, Los Angeles, has been invaded and occupied by illegal aliens and criminals. Violent, insurrectionist mobs are now attacking our federal agents in an attempt to halt deportation operations,” Trump posted on Truth Social.
“I am directing Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem, Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, and Attorney General Pam Bondi, in coordination with other relevant departments and agencies, to take all necessary action to liberate Los Angeles from the migrant invasion and restore order. The illegals will be expelled, and Los Angeles will be set free,” he added.
Local Leaders Push Back
Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass dismissed the need for federal military support, stating she had confidence in the city’s law enforcement capabilities. Speaking to CNN, Bass said: “I do not believe that is called for because I am confident that LAPD and other law enforcement agencies like the sheriff’s department can handle things in Los Angeles.”
Despite her remarks, approximately 300 National Guard troops have already been deployed to three locations across the city, according to reports from ABC7, citing the mayor’s office.
Trump’s remarks also drew strong criticism from California Governor Gavin Newsom, who labeled the federal response as “purposefully inflammatory.”
“Donald Trump’s chaos is eroding trust, tearing families apart, and undermining the workers and industries that power America’s economy,” Newsom said.
The governor further warned that deploying military forces during protests could severely damage public confidence in both state and federal institutions.
Mayor Bass, responding to Trump’s claim that local and state officials had lost control, pushed back firmly: “I reject the notion that the governor or I are incapable of doing our jobs. We have been working in close collaboration with law enforcement and with representatives from the White House.”
Tensions Continue to Rise
As tensions remain high, the situation in Los Angeles continues to evolve. Federal agencies are pressing ahead with immigration enforcement actions, while state and city officials attempt to manage protests and public response without escalating violence or damaging community trust.
Observers note that this standoff highlights the broader national divide over immigration policy, states’ rights, and the use of federal force in local jurisdictions.
