Subtitle:
Former president defends military action, says it prevented citywide chaos and destruction
Content:
Former U.S. President Donald Trump stirred fresh controversy with his recent remarks, claiming that Los Angeles would have been “burning to the ground” had troops not been deployed during periods of unrest. Speaking at a political rally, Trump strongly defended his administration’s decision to send federal forces into U.S. cities during nationwide protests.
“Without that deployment, you wouldn’t even recognize L.A. today. It would’ve been ashes,” Trump declared to a cheering crowd. He credited the move with restoring order and protecting vital infrastructure from what he described as “out-of-control riots.”
The comment has sparked a wave of reactions from political leaders, activists, and civil rights groups. Critics argue that the military presence during the protests only escalated tensions and undermined citizens’ rights to peaceful assembly.
Trump’s statement is part of a broader narrative he has pushed in recent months — portraying himself as a law-and-order leader who took bold steps to curb violence and maintain control. His comments come amid growing debate over the appropriate use of federal forces in local jurisdictions.
While some supporters praised his tough stance, others warned that such rhetoric risks deepening divisions and rewriting the narrative of events that gripped U.S. cities during turbulent times. The city of Los Angeles has not officially responded to Trump’s latest remarks.
As the political landscape heats up, Trump’s comments are likely to fuel further debate over federal intervention, state autonomy, and the balance between security and civil liberties.