The presence of the National Guard in Washington is part of the federal deployment ordered by Trump in August, as part of the administrative takeover of the city to end insecurity and violent crime. According to the latest available figures, about 2,188 troops remain stationed in the capital.
Amid uncertainty over the health of the two wounded guards, Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem expressed her concern and urged support for those affected.
“Please join me in praying for the two National Guardsmen who were shot moments ago in Washington, D.C. [The Department of Homeland Security] is working with local law enforcement to gather more information”, she said in a statement.
"The animal who shot the two National Guardsmen, both seriously wounded and now in separate hospitals, is also seriously wounded, but, despite everything, will pay a very high price", President Trump also wrote on his social media.
"May God bless our Great National Guard and all our Armed Forces and Law Enforcement. They are truly extraordinary people. I, as President of the United States, and everyone associated with the Office of the Presidency, stand with you!", he added.
Although the suspect is already in custody, agencies are still investigating the circumstances of the attack and no further details have been provided at this time.
