WASHINGTON: The Pentagon has placed roughly 1,500 active-duty troops on prepare-to-deploy orders for potential deployment to Minnesota as protests over the government’s deportation drive persist, two US officials told Reuters on Sunday. The forces, based in Alaska, specialise in cold-weather operations and belong to two infantry battalions under the 11th Airborne Division.
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Officials noted that the troops would only deploy if unrest in the Midwestern state escalates further, though no final decision has been taken. The move reflects concern within the administration over recent clashes surrounding US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) personnel, who have been the target of demonstrations against deportations.
1500 troops from Alaska army on standby to deploy for Minnesota as civil unrest and paid protestors continue instigating and attacking ICE agents who are there legally to detain illegal criminals let in under Bidens as local authorities do nothing! Insurrection acts next. pic.twitter.com/mVmfSajB8w
— agness_lovehealz (@agnesslovehealz) January 18, 2026
President Donald Trump on Thursday threatened to invoke the Insurrection Act should state authorities fail to bring the situation under control. In a post on Truth Social, he accused Minnesota’s leadership of enabling “professional agitators and insurrectionists” and warned that federal intervention would follow if ICE officers continued to be harassed.
Even without invoking the Insurrection Act, a president may deploy active-duty forces for specific domestic missions, including protection of federal property. Trump cited similar grounds in 2025 when Marines were dispatched to Los Angeles during unrest linked to federal facilities.
Alongside active-duty units, the Pentagon could also activate newly formed National Guard rapid-response forces designed for civil disturbances, though officials have not confirmed whether such plans are being considered. Both the Pentagon and the White House declined to comment on the potential deployment, which was first reported by ABC News.
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The escalation underscores mounting tension over the administration’s deportation campaign, which has sparked protests across several US cities. Minnesota has emerged as a focal point, with demonstrators clashing with counter-protesters during events such as the “Americans Against Islamification” rally in downtown areas.