BREAKING: President Trump has issued a powerful statement after the shooting of two National Guardsmen in Washington, D.C.

BREAKING: President Trump has issued a powerful statement after the shooting of two National Guardsmen in Washington, D.C.

President Donald Trump issued a strongly worded statement following a shooting on Wednesday that left two National Guard members critically wounded in an attack just blocks from the White House.

“The animal that shot the two National Guardsmen, with both being critically wounded, and now in two separate hospitals, is also severely wounded, but regardless, will pay a very steep price,” the President said. “God bless our Great National Guard, and all of our Military and Law Enforcement. These are truly Great People. I, as President of the United States, and everyone associated with the Office of the Presidency, am with you!”

The incident occurred around 2:15 p.m. local time near the intersection of 17th and I streets NW, a busy area close to the Farragut West Metro station. According to law enforcement officials, the two soldiers from the West Virginia National Guard were on a high-visibility patrol when a lone gunman turned a corner and opened fire without warning.

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The guardsmen, who officials said were caught by surprise, both sustained gunshot wounds to the head. They were rushed to nearby hospitals and remain in critical condition.

A third guard member who was part of the patrol returned fire, striking the assailant and allowing for his apprehension. The suspect was also transported to a hospital and is currently in custody under guard.

Law enforcement sources have identified the gunman as Rahmanullah Lakanwal, a 29-year-old Afghan national. Reports indicate he entered the United States in September 2021 under the “Operation Allies Welcome” program, which was established to resettle Afghans following the military withdrawal. He was granted asylum in April of this year.

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The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has taken the lead in the investigation. Authorities are looking into the possibility that the attack was an act of terrorism and are treating it as an assault on federal officers. At this time, a clear motive has not been established, as the suspect is reportedly refusing to cooperate with investigators.

The shooting has sent concern through the capital, raising questions about the safety of military personnel deployed in the city and the security protocols surrounding high-profile areas.