Trump Proposes Military Training in American Cities

Tue Oct 21 2025 06:22:58 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

In a controversial address, President Trump suggests U.S. cities transform into military training grounds to address domestic unrest.

President Donald Trump recently proposed that American cities be used as 'training grounds' for the military amid increasing civil unrest. In a gathering of international military leaders, Trump described domestic disturbances as 'the enemy from within.' He suggested that using troops for law enforcement in Democratic-led cities like San Francisco and Chicago is necessary to restore order. The statement has sparked criticism, with opponents labeling it a militarization of urban areas. Trump's remarks were supported by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, who called for an end to 'woke' culture in the military.

US President Donald Trump has said he wants to use American cities as 'training grounds' for the military.

In an unusual address to hundreds of military leaders assembled from across the world, Trump described 'civil disturbances' as the 'enemy from within'. He added that the situation 'won't get out of control once you're involved.'

It comes after Trump deployed National Guard troops to Washington DC, Los Angeles and Portland, Oregon, in a crackdown on crime and to support immigration enforcement.

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth also spoke, declaring an end to 'woke' culture at the Pentagon and announcing new 'male-level', physical fitness standards for military officials.

The president repeated his criticism of Democratic-led cities including San Francisco, Chicago, New York, and Los Angeles and indicated he would continue his policy of using military for law enforcement. 'They're very unsafe places and we're going to straighten them out one by one,' he said, adding that it would be a 'a major part for some of the people in this room.'

Illinois Governor JB Pritzker accused Trump of using military troops and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to 'invade and disrupt' US cities. 'Our troops and our nation deserve better than you acting as a petty tyrant,' he said in a post on X.

The event, held at Marine Corps Base Quantico, featured tight security. Both Trump and Hegseth aimed to shift the culture within the military and discussed initiatives like rebranding the Defense Department as the Department of War.

Hegseth’s advocacy for higher military fitness standards raised concerns about inclusivity, especially regarding female soldiers, as he emphasized a need for uniform standards.

Security personnel listened in silence as Trump emphasized the need to bolster military training and maintain an assertive stance against perceived internal threats. Critics, including Senator Tammy Duckworth, expressed deep concerns about the implications of such policies for military recruitment and societal impact.

As the meeting concluded, the gathering of senior military officials reflected a mix of support and apprehension over Trump and Hegseth’s proposals aimed at reshaping military engagement within domestic sectors.