Trump Warns of "War from Within" as US Military Takes on New Domestic Role

Trump Warns of "War from Within" as US Military Takes on New Role In a rare meeting at Quantico, Virginia, US President Donald Trump addressed the country's top generals and admirals on Tuesday, signaling a significant shift in the military's role in domestic affairs. Trump signed an order to establish a military quick reaction force to respond to civil unrest, marking a departure from traditional defense strategies. "We're going to straighten them out one by one, and this is going to be a major part for some of the people in this room," Trump said, referring to Democratic-run cities that have been plagued by protests and social unrest. "That's a war too – it's a war from within." Pentagon Chief Pete Hegseth, who called for the meeting last week, has been leading Trump's transformation of the US military. Hegseth recently changed the name of the agency from Department of Defense to War Department, sparking controversy and debate among international observers. "This is not just about defending our borders; it's about defending our values," Hegseth said in a statement. "We will no longer be the Woke Department." The move has been met with skepticism by some international leaders, who see it as an escalation of tensions between the US government and its citizens. "This is a worrying trend that undermines the principles of democracy and human rights," said a spokesperson for the European Union. Background: The meeting comes at a time when social unrest and protests have gripped many major cities in the United States. Trump's administration has been criticized for its handling of these situations, with some accusing it of using military force to quell dissent. Additional perspectives: Analysts point out that this shift in the military's role may be part of a broader strategy to consolidate power and suppress opposition. "This is not just about law and order; it's about maintaining control," said Dr. Maria Rodriguez, a specialist in international relations at Georgetown University. Current status: The establishment of the quick reaction force has been met with resistance from some lawmakers, who argue that it oversteps the military's authority. Trump's administration has vowed to push forward with its plans, despite growing opposition. Next developments: The US Congress is expected to hold hearings on the matter in the coming weeks, as lawmakers grapple with the implications of this shift in the military's role. International observers will be closely watching these developments, as they seek to understand the motivations behind Trump's actions and their potential impact on global stability. *Reporting by Dw.*