Trump to Deploy Troops to Portland Amid Tensions

Tue Oct 21 2025 21:59:59 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

In a controversial move, President Trump plans to send troops to Portland, claiming it's to combat domestic terrorism and protect federal facilities.

President Donald Trump has announced that he will deploy troops to Portland, Oregon, authorizing 'full force' if necessary. He labeled the protests as domestic terrorism, specifically targeting Antifa, and stated that the deployment is to protect U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement facilities. This follows a summer of escalating tensions across several U.S. cities, amid protests and civil unrest. Local officials, including Portland's mayor, have asserted they do not require federal intervention to manage local unrest.

WASHINGTON (AP) — President Donald Trump said Saturday he will send troops to Portland, Oregon, “authorizing Full Force, if necessary” to handle “domestic terrorists” as he expands his controversial deployments to more American cities.

He made the announcement on social media, indicating his directive for the Department of Defense to ensure troop protection for Portland.

Trump claimed the action is required to safeguard U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement facilities, which he asserts are “under siege” from groups like Antifa. The president’s crackdown comes in light of nationwide protests and perceived political violence, with a notable increase following the recent assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk.

Earlier this summer, Trump had mobilized the National Guard and active-duty Marines in cities like Los Angeles to respond to similar unrest.

Trump's intervention in Portland, identified as a hotspot for ongoing protests, follows incidents of violence against federal agents and a highly publicized guillotine display erected by demonstrators. Portland’s Mayor Keith Wilson firmly rejected federal intervention, asserting the city has responsibly balanced freedom of expression and public safety amidst conflicts.

As tensions continue to climb, Trump has pointed to cities like Chicago and Baltimore as potential targets for such federal actions to combat perceived chaos.