Two West Virginia National Guard members were shot near the White House on Wednesday, sparking a national outcry over the targeted attack. The suspect, identified as 29-year-old Afghan national Rahmanullah Lakanwal, is an illegal migrant who entered the U.S. after the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan. According to law enforcement sources, Lakanwal was granted humanitarian parole by the Department of Homeland Security. As the investigation into the shooting unfolds, the FBI has confirmed that both National Guardsmen remain in critical condition.
President Donald Trump, in an address to the nation, condemned the attack as a ‘savage attack’ and referred to it as an ‘act of evil and terror.’ He emphasized the importance of protecting American interests and called for swift justice against the perpetrator. The incident has raised broader concerns about security measures and the need to ensure the safety of the nation’s capital. Local authorities, including the District of Columbia mayor and Metropolitan Police Department officials, have been working to provide details on the suspect, who was swiftly taken into custody after the attack.
The shooting has also led to increased security measures for the White House and other key locations in Washington, D.C. This includes the deployment of additional National Guard troops to ensure the safety of the city. Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of War Pete Hegseth have both spoken about the importance of supporting the National Guard and ensuring that the city remains secure. The president’s address also outlined plans to mobilize 500 additional troops to the capital, emphasizing the administration’s commitment to protecting American citizens and upholding national security.
As the nation mourns the loss of two brave service members, the incident serves as a reminder of the dangers faced by those who serve in defense of the United States. While the investigation continues, the focus remains on providing comfort and support to the families of the victims and the wounded. The ongoing discussions about border security, immigration policies, and the protection of national interests have intensified following the attack, with calls for further action and reforms in these areas.