President Donald Trump spoke to the nation on Wednesday following a shooting incident in Washington, D.C., that left three people injured, including two National Guard members.
He labeled the assault—reportedly carried out by Afghan nationals relocated to the U.S. in 2021 under President Joe Biden—as a “crime against our country.”
“This dreadful act embodies evil, hatred, and terrorism,” Trump stated. “It’s an offense against not just our nation, but humanity as a whole. Tonight, we unite with the families of the two National Guard members from West Virginia.”
The president also vowed that those responsible would face justice, characterizing them as “animals.” He mentioned that the Department of Homeland Security identified the assailant as an Afghan national resettled during what he considered a flawed withdrawal from Afghanistan in 2021.
“He was airlifted by the Biden administration in September 2021,” Trump commented. “This process was opaque. No one knew who was coming. His status continued because of legislation signed by President Biden. This administration has been disastrous—arguably the worst in our country’s history.”
Trump urged for closer examination of individuals who were brought from Afghanistan during that timeframe.
According to reports, there was a shooting involving the National Guard in Washington, D.C., which prompted a lockdown at the White House.
WJLA reported that a suspect is now in custody.
The Associated Press noted that the condition of the injured National Guard member remains unclear, and confirmed the shooting occurred “near the White House.”
Later, the New York Times shared that Secretary of the Army Pete Hegseth described the incident as occurring near “the entrance to the Farragut West subway station,” condemning the act as “despicable” and asserting, “This only strengthens our resolve to ensure Washington, D.C., is safe and beautiful.”
