Is there really no place for violence in America? Barack Obama responds to Washington shooting
Click to start listening
Synopsis
In a powerful statement, former President Barack Obama condemns the recent shooting in Washington. Two National Guardsmen are critically injured, sparking outrage and calls for action from leaders including Kamala Harris and Donald Trump. As the nation grapples with this tragedy, what does it mean for public safety and community trust?
Key Takeaways
- Obama condemns violence as unacceptable in America.
- Two National Guardsmen are critically injured in the shooting.
- Trump calls the incident an act of terror and criticizes immigration policies.
- Federal prosecution is underway for the suspect.
- Increased National Guard presence is noted in Washington.
Washington, Nov 27 (NationPress) Former US President Barack Obama has denounced the recent shooting incident in Washington, asserting that "violence has no place in America".
Two National Guardsmen were shot in downtown Washington and are currently in critical condition. US media has reported that the suspected shooter is Rahmanullah Lakanwal, an Afghan national who arrived in the US in 2021.
In a statement posted on X, Obama expressed, "Violence has no place in America. Michelle and I are praying for the servicemembers shot in Washington, DC today, and send our love to their families as they enter this holiday season under the most tragic of circumstances."
Former Vice President Kamala Harris also shared her thoughts on social media, offering prayers for the families of the injured guardsmen.
"Doug and I send our prayers to the two National Guardsmen who were shot earlier today in Washington, to their families, and to the communities that love them. Violence of any kind is unacceptable, and we all, together, must condemn this tragedy," Harris remarked.
In contrast, President Donald Trump labeled the shooting an "act of terror".
"This heinous assault was an act of evil and an act of hatred, and an act of terror. It was a crime against our entire nation. It was a crime against humanity," Trump stated during a national address on Wednesday evening (local time).
He further remarked that the suspect in custody is a "foreigner who entered our country from Afghanistan, a hellhole on earth", attributing blame to the previous Biden administration for permitting the attacker to enter the US as a refugee.
Trump also committed to "re-examine every single alien" from Afghanistan who entered the US under Biden's administration.
"We must now re-examine every single alien who has entered our country from Afghanistan under Biden, and we must take all necessary measures to ensure the removal of any alien from any country who does not belong here, or add benefit to our country if they can't love our country, we don't want them," he added.
Additionally, he announced the deployment of an extra 500 troops to help safeguard the capital.
The shooting occurred less than 500 meters from the White House. Trump was not present in the capital, as he is currently visiting Florida for the Thanksgiving holiday.
During a press briefing, FBI Director Kash Patel indicated that the case would be prosecuted at the federal level due to "this being an assault on federal law enforcement officers."
In recent months, multiple states have dispatched Guard personnel to Washington as part of President Trump's public-safety initiative, which has recently expanded to several other major US cities.
Currently, there are approximately 2,400 National Guard troops stationed in Washington, which includes around 958 from the DC National Guard and about 1,300 from eight other states.
Point of View
I observe that the outrage following the shooting incident underscores a critical moment for America. The responses from prominent leaders reflect our collective struggle against violence. It is essential to foster dialogue around safety and community well-being, ensuring that such tragedies do not overshadow the spirit of unity.
NationPress
27/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Who were the victims of the Washington shooting?
The victims are two National Guardsmen who were shot in downtown Washington and are currently in critical condition.
What did Barack Obama say about the shooting?
Barack Obama condemned the violence, stating that "violence has no place in America" and expressed his prayers for the victims and their families.
What is the response from Donald Trump?
Donald Trump labeled the shooting an "act of terror," criticizing the previous administration for allowing the suspect into the country.
What actions are being taken in response to the shooting?
Authorities are prosecuting the case at the federal level, and Trump announced the deployment of an additional 500 troops to help protect the capital.
What is the current status of the National Guard in Washington?
Approximately 2,400 National Guard troops are currently deployed in Washington, including 958 from the DC National Guard and about 1,300 from other states.
