Trump Proposes Using “Dangerous” US Cities as Military Training Grounds

President Donald Trump announced a controversial plan for the U.S. military. He suggested using American cities as training grounds. The remarks were made on Tuesday at Marine Corps Base Quantico in Virginia.

He addressed a gathering of top military officers from around the world. The speech focused heavily on domestic crime and political themes.

Focus on an “Enemy From Within”

Trump described a need to handle an “enemy from within.” He stated the country must act before the situation gets out of control. According to Reuters, he specifically named Chicago and Portland.

He claimed Portland “looks like a war zone.” The president then said his administration was “going into Chicago very soon.” This aligns with his broader push to involve the military in domestic law enforcement.

A Political Speech to a Military Audience

The address broke from traditional commander-in-chief remarks. It resembled a political rally more than a military briefing. Trump repeated claims of resolving foreign wars and criticized the media.

He also issued a stark warning to the officers in attendance. Trump said those who disliked his message could leave. He added that doing so would cost them their rank and future.

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth spoke before the president. Hegseth echoed the confrontational tone. He urged officers who disagreed with his vision to resign honorably. This gathering raised concerns about the politicization of the armed forces.

The proposal to use American urban centers for military drills marks a significant shift in domestic policy, drawing immediate scrutiny from civil rights advocates and legal experts.

Thought you’d like to know

Which cities did Trump specifically mention?

President Trump explicitly named Chicago, Illinois, and Portland, Oregon. He suggested these locations could serve as potential training sites for U.S. troops. He described Portland as looking like a “war zone.”

What was the purpose of the military gathering?

The event brought hundreds of generals and admirals to Quantico. Official statements framed it as a leadership meeting. Critics questioned the high cost and unusual nature of the assembly.

How has the military been used domestically under Trump?

Active-duty troops have been deployed to the U.S.-Mexico border. National Guard units have also patrolled streets in several cities. This includes Washington, Memphis, Portland, and Chicago.

What did Defense Secretary Hegseth announce?

Hegseth outlined plans to overhaul military culture. He vowed to change inspector general and equal opportunity programs. He also emphasized strict, male-based physical fitness standards for all personnel.

Why are these proposals controversial?

Using the military for domestic law enforcement is highly unusual. It blurs the line between civilian and military authority. Legal experts and civil liberties groups have raised significant constitutional concerns.

Trusted Sources

Associated Press, Reuters