Two members of the West Virginia National Guard were seriously injured in a shooting incident near the White House on November 27, 2025. The shooting occurred around 14:15 local time while the guardsmen were on a “high-visibility patrol” near the entrance to the Farragut West subway station. The assailant, identified as Rahmanullah Lakanwal, a 29-year-old Afghan national, opened fire, resulting in critical injuries to both soldiers, aged 20 and 24, who had recently been sworn in.
Following the shooting, both guardsmen underwent surgery and remain in critical condition, as confirmed by federal authorities overseeing the investigation. The incident is being treated as a potential act of terrorism. Law enforcement officials stated that Lakanwal acted alone, and a swift response from other guardsmen led to his apprehension, during which he was also injured. He is currently in custody and receiving medical treatment.
Further investigation revealed that Lakanwal had entered the United States in 2021 under the Operation Allies Welcome program, designed to support Afghan nationals who assisted U.S. forces during the conflict in Afghanistan. Authorities disclosed that he had no prior criminal record but had a history of aiding U.S. intelligence agencies. Reports indicate that he traveled from Washington state to Washington, D.C., to carry out the attack. However, the motive behind his actions remains unclear.
Government Response and Security Measures
In response to the shooting, the federal government has taken immediate actions. The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has indefinitely paused all new immigration applications from Afghan nationals while conducting a thorough review of its vetting and security protocols. In addition, the White House ordered the deployment of 500 additional National Guard troops to Washington, D.C., increasing the total to over 2,000. This expansion has sparked controversy, particularly as it faces legal challenges from local city officials.
President Donald Trump addressed the nation following the incident, expressing solidarity with the wounded soldiers and their families. He stated, “The hearts of all Americans tonight are with those two members of the West Virginia National Guard… We will make America totally safe again, and we will bring the perpetrator of this barbaric attack to swift and certain justice.”
Local officials characterized the shooting as a “targeted attack,” heightening security measures in the capital as the holiday tourist season begins. The incident raises pressing questions regarding domestic troop deployments, immigration policies, and public safety measures in urban areas.
As the investigation continues, authorities are working diligently to uncover additional details surrounding this alarming event. The focus remains on the health and recovery of the injured guardsmen as well as the broader implications for national security.
