US President Donald Trump delivered a historic and highly controversial speech to nearly 800 military generals and admirals at Quantico Marine Corps Base in Virginia, declaring that the United States is facing a "war from within" that poses a greater threat than any foreign adversary. Trump characterized this internal conflict as involving "enemies within" who, unlike traditional foes, do not wear uniforms.
Trump called on the US military to play a proactive role in addressing what he described as domestic unrest and insurgency, particularly targeting cities governed by Democratic leaders such as New York, Chicago, San Francisco, and Los Angeles. He referred to these cities as "very unsafe places" and indicated plans to "straighten them out one by one," suggesting an expansion of National Guard deployments to these urban centers.
The president praised his administration’s previous deployments of troops to cities like Portland, Oregon, and Washington D.C., often in defiance of local officials' objections. He emphasized a new military doctrine focused on rapid response teams capable of managing civil disturbances and emphasized a harsher approach against protesters who confront troops.
Trump’s remarks sparked significant debate, with critics raising constitutional concerns about using the military for domestic policing and accusing him of politicizing the armed forces. Supporters hailed the speech as a necessary stance against rising crime and chaos in America’s urban centers.
The speech also featured sharp criticism of former President Joe Biden and the "radical left," framing the internal conflict as a battle for the nation’s future. Trump ended the address with an assertive message to military officers resistant to his agenda, warning, "If you don't like what I'm saying, you can leave the room. Of course, there goes your rank, there goes your future."