Military personnel from the National Guard in Washington D.C. authorized to carry firearms and rifles, following President Trump's command.

Armed National Guard Units Operate Under Strict Rules in Washington D.C.

The National Guard is currently deployed in Washington D.C., with some units carrying weapons as part of their missions. However, the specific rules governing the use of force by these armed units remain unclear.

According to a defence official, who spoke on the condition of anonymity, the armed units of the National Guard are operating under strict rules for the use of force. The official did not specify which units would be carrying guns, but confirmed that only troops on certain missions, such as those patrolling to establish a law enforcement presence, will be armed.

The military rules state that force should be used only as a last resort and solely in response to an imminent threat of death or serious bodily harm. The defence official's statement does not mention any change in the training received by the armed units of the National Guard, nor any new military rules or guidelines regarding the use of force in Washington D.C.

It was not clarified if the rules for use of force would apply differently to troops carrying guns on their missions in Washington D.C. The defence official did not provide any information about the South Carolina National Guard's presence outside Union Station with holstered handguns on Sunday.

The joint task force overseeing policing in Washington D.C. allows units to carry their service weapons. Troops working in transport or administration are expected to remain unarmed. The National Guard's involvement in Washington D.C. is being led by President Trump, although he was not mentioned as directly involved in the arming of the units.

The defence official's statement reiterates the commitment of the armed forces to protecting the safety and well-being of Washington's residents. The National Guard units involved in various unspecified missions and equipped with weapons such as handguns or rifles include specialized police-like units within the Army National Guard and Air National Guard in each U.S. state, as well as a special unit within the National Guard of the District of Columbia. A permanent Rapid Reaction Force equipped, trained, and ready for nationwide deployment is ensured.

The defence official did not mention any involvement of Donald Trump in the decision to arm certain units of the National Guard in Washington D.C. The defence official's statement does not provide any new information about the joint task force overseeing policing in Washington D.C.

Military personnel from the National Guard in Washington D.C. authorized to carry firearms and rifles, following President Trump's command.