Pentagon withdraws 2,000 National Guard troops from LA – a victory for the citizens?

Pentagon withdraws 2,000 National Guard troops from LA – a victory for the citizens?

Something is happening in Los Angeles! The US Department of Defense has announced that it will withdraw 2,000 National Guard troops, representing half of the troops stationed there. This measure was justified as a response to the declining “lawlessness” in the city. How Boyen's Media Reportedly, President Donald Trump originally sent the soldiers in June 2020 to stop protests against the controversial ICE deportations. After the withdrawal, 2,000 National Guardsmen and 700 Marines will remain in Los Angeles.

The point at which the whole thing tips over: California Governor Gavin Newsom and Mayor Karen Bass could not hold back their criticism of the troop deployment. Newsom calls for a complete withdrawal and accuses Trump and the Pentagon of exceeding their authority. Bass called the partial withdrawal of the National Guard a “huge victory” for the residents of Los Angeles. The measure is also causing a stir in legal circles - the posting itself has already been taken to court.

Protests and riots

The roots of the current situation lie in protests against ICE raids in areas with large Latino populations. From June 6, 2025, there were demonstrations in Los Angeles, led by ABC News described as both peaceful and violent. These protests were sparked by immigrant communities' concerns over the Trump administration's strict immigration policies. Demonstrators called for an end to the raids and said they feared the troops deployed.

How the events unfolded is revealed in an exciting chronological reckoning: on the first day of the protest itself, ICE raids were conducted in the area, and on June 9, the LAPD announced that the protests were declared unlawful, while 700 Marines were dispatched to assist. That day also saw 197 arrests made and reports of affected businesses falling victim to vandalism and looting. Such chaos has revived memories of the 1992 riots.

A look into the future

Although the withdrawal of the National Guard could be a positive sign, the situation remains tense. Based on the events of the last few weeks and the statements of political actors in California, it is clear that tensions between the state and the Trump administration will continue. A complete withdrawal of troops remains the goal, but until then the situation will need to be monitored closely.

There is a lot at stake, especially for the residents of Los Angeles, and all eyes are on the decisions ahead. The National Guard, which plays an important element in times of crisis, remains present in Los Angeles as protests and public pressure continue to develop. The momentum toward less military and more constructive solutions could represent a positive turn in this difficult time.