Trump urges ICE to act ‘very forceful’ against riots, demands ‘please’ from cities seeking help
WASHINGTON, DC: President Donald Trump on Saturday, January 31, instructed federal agents to use what he described as “very forceful” measures to defend federal buildings amid violent anti-ICE protests in several US cities.
Trump framed the issue as a federal responsibility when government property is attacked, while placing limits on broader intervention in cities dealing with unrest. He said federal authorities will act decisively to protect courthouses and other buildings but will not automatically step in to assist local governments unless specific conditions are met.
President Trump warns rioters in Democrat cities that ICE and Border Patrol will be “very forceful” in protecting Federal Buildings being attacked by agitators and insurrectionists. pic.twitter.com/Y3KzTnQHhF
— Benny Johnson (@bennyjohnson) January 31, 2026
Trump orders forceful protection of federal buildings
In a detailed Truth Social post, Trump said he directed Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem to ensure federal buildings are guarded aggressively when targeted by protesters.
He accused what he called “agitators” and “insurrectionists” of deliberately attacking federal property and said such actions would not be tolerated. Trump emphasized that the federal government will act independently when its buildings are under threat, regardless of local political dynamics.
“We will, however, guard, and very powerfully so, any and all Federal Buildings that are being attacked,” Trump wrote, stressing that protecting federal property is not optional.
Federal help for cities tied to formal requests
Trump drew a clear distinction between defending federal assets and assisting cities with protests or riots. He said the federal government will not intervene in cities struggling with unrest unless governors or mayors formally request help.
Criticizing what he described as “poorly run Democrat Cities,” Trump said local leaders must first take responsibility for maintaining order. Only after an official request, he added, would federal authorities consider providing support beyond guarding federal property.
He noted that any such intervention would be carried out in a “methodical” manner and would not override local authority unless invited.
Trump warns of consequences for attacks on agents
The president also issued a warning to protesters who physically confront federal officers or damage government vehicles and equipment.
Trump listed specific actions that would result in severe consequences, including spitting on officers, throwing rocks or bricks at vehicles, and damaging federal cars. He said those responsible would face punishment equal to or greater than the harm caused.
He reminded local governments that they are obligated to protect federal parks and buildings, describing federal agents as a backup force when local authorities fail to act.
Eugene, Ore. (Jan. 30) — Antifa and far-left rioters who surrounded the federal building are dispersed with pepper gas. The university city is infected with radical leftist politics that regularly turns into political violence. pic.twitter.com/B1S9n8zZF0
— Andy Ngo (@MrAndyNgo) January 31, 2026
‘Please’ required before federal intervention
Referring to clashes in Eugene, Oregon, Trump claimed local police failed to prevent damage to a federal building. While offering federal assistance, he attached a pointed condition.
Trump said governors and mayors must formally request federal help and do so respectfully, adding that the word “please” must be used before assistance is provided.
He concluded by reaffirming his “law and order” stance, stating that ICE, Border Patrol, and, if necessary, the military would act decisively to protect federal property and prevent further damage.
