The U.S. security forces have announced an extensive operation to ensure safety during the inauguration of Donald Trump, scheduled for January 20, and they acknowledge the possibility of an attempted attack by "lone wolves."
The Secret Service special agent for Washington, Matt McCool, stated at a press conference this Monday that there is "a heightened threat environment" compared to the last inauguration of Joe Biden in 2021, which took place during the COVID-19 pandemic.
"We are 100% confident that the plan designed will ensure the safety of the public and the authorities", declared McCool.
Considered a special national security event, U.S. authorities have deployed an unprecedented security operation to ensure the ceremony proceeds without incidents.
The operation will involve the participation of 25,000 agents and members of the National Guard, as well as more than 30 miles of barriers to secure the National Esplanade and the Capitol.
The Special Agent of the United States Secret Service, Matt McCool, stated that "all attendees will undergo security screenings", with designated inspection points and flight restrictions around the capital.
McCool also noted that the event expects to welcome hundreds of thousands of people, as well as high-profile political figures.
In parallel, the head of the DC Police, Pamela Smith, confirmed the activation of the entire local police department, reinforced with 4,000 additional officers from across the country.
Moreover, 7,800 members of the National Guard will be available to assist at the inaugural events.
"We will not tolerate any form of violence. We want people to enjoy our city, but those who break the law will be arrested and held accountable for their actions," stated Smith.
The mayor of DC, Muriel Bowser, emphasized that security measures will extend beyond the ceremony, with visible patrols, barriers, and road closures in downtown Washington.
"The impact of the inauguration will be felt mainly around the National Mall, the Capitol, and Union Station," Bowser explained.
The threat of "lone wolves" and recent background
"The biggest threat" to the inauguration, according to the head of the Capitol Police, Tom Manger, is the possibility of attacks by "lone wolves."
“The threat of a lone wolf remains our greatest concern and justifies the state of maximum alert,” he stated.
In recent days, two incidents at the Capitol raised alarms: one person attempted to enter the lying in state of former President Jimmy Carter with knives, while another was arrested for trying to set a vehicle on fire in the vicinity of Congress.
These events, combined with the assassination attempt on Trump during his electoral campaign and the massive attack on New Year's in New Orleans, have reinforced the need for extreme measures.
Coordination between agencies and technological security
David Sundberg, Deputy Director of the FBI in Washington, confirmed that the operation has two main command posts, one at the local FBI office and another at its headquarters.
“Currently we are not tracking any specific or credible threat to the inaugural ceremony or the Capitol complex, but we urge the public to remain vigilant,” Sundberg noted.
The transportation system will also be monitored.
According to Randy Clarke, the general director of Metro, more than 900 security personnel will supervise public transportation, which will open at 4 a.m. on the day of the inauguration to manage the influx of people.
Donald Trump will take office next Monday at noon on the Capitol steps, surrounded by officials and in front of thousands of attendees who will gather on the National Mall to witness him assume his second presidential term.
Frequently asked questions about Donald Trump's inauguration and security measures
When will Donald Trump's inauguration as president of the U.S. take place?
Donald Trump's inauguration is scheduled for January 20, 2025, at 12:00 p.m. (Eastern Time), on the steps of the United States Capitol in Washington D.C.
What security measures will be implemented during Trump's inauguration?
During Trump's inauguration, an unprecedented security operation will be deployed, including 25,000 agents and National Guard members, more than 30 miles of anti-climb fencing, security checks for all attendees, and flight restrictions around the capital. These measures aim to ensure safety in light of the threat posed by "lone wolves."
What are the main threats during Trump's inauguration?
The main concern of the authorities is the potential attacks by "lone wolves", individuals who act on their own. This threat has led to a state of maximum alert, especially following recent incidents at the Capitol.
How will the security agencies coordinate during the inauguration?
The security coordination during the inauguration will include two main command posts from the FBI, one at the local office and another at their headquarters. Additionally, there will be constant monitoring of the public transportation system to manage the influx of people.
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