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What does the National Guard do? Why are its troops in US cities?
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US President Donald Trump has activated the National Guard several times in 2025 in Democratic-led cities.
PHOTO: AFP
John Ismay
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WASHINGTON – President Donald Trump’s mobilisation of the National Guard in several US cities in recent months is a departure from its historic role.
The National Guard is a state-based military force whose troops wear uniforms and rank, operate military vehicles and weapons, and have often been called upon to serve alongside regular active-duty units in war.
