Synopsis
As US President-elect Donald Trump prepares for his inauguration, extensive security measures are in place due to past assassination attempts. The ceremony has been moved indoors, but significant threats persist. Over 25,000 personnel will ensure safety while authorities warn of potential extremist actions.Key Takeaways
- Extensive security measures in Washington for Trump's inauguration.
- More than 25,000 personnel deployed for protection.
- Indoor ceremony at the Capitol due to freezing temperatures.
- Multiple threats identified, including terrorist actions.
- Live broadcast for 20,000 attendees at Capital Arena.
New York, Jan 20 (NationPress) As US President-elect Donald Trump prepares for his swearing-in, having survived two assassination attempts, Washington is implementing extensive security measures. A massive safety perimeter involving tens of thousands of personnel has been established, featuring miles of fencing, vehicle barricades, and the use of helicopters and drones.
Due to the frigid conditions on Monday, the ceremony has been moved indoors to the Capitol, potentially reducing some risks, yet serious threats persist.
Secret Service Spokesperson Anthony Guglielmi mentioned on X, "From radiological threats to flat tires, the Secret Service has dedicated over a year to ensure Monday's inauguration is secure by collaborating with premier law enforcement and public safety agencies to guarantee a safe and successful event."
More than 25,000 personnel from across the nation will be mobilized for protection, according to Secret Service Special Agent Matt McCool during a Sunday press briefing.
This force will encompass National Guard units from 40 states and police volunteers from 32 states, enhancing the capital's police resources.
To oversee security from above, helicopters and drones will be employed, and extensive fencing will surround the Capitol and other critical locations.
The space agency NASA is conducting low-altitude helicopter flights over Washington to assess radiation threats.
Addressing concerns about a repeat of prior attempts on Trump's life, McCool assured, "We conducted a thorough review of previous events, and all identified shortcomings have been rectified. You will not witness anything similar at this inauguration."
The New Year's Day incident involving a vehicle attack by an Islamic State terrorist in New Orleans has added to the list of potential dangers.
McCool stated that there will be two layers of fencing around the Capitol, reinforced with vehicles designed to thwart attacks and concrete barriers.
Although the ceremony will occur in the Capitol rotunda, which accommodates a limited number of attendees, a live broadcast will be available at the Capital Arena for approximately 20,000 people, with many braving the cold to gather outside.
Protests similar to the recent "People's March" may also arise.
According to Politico, various intelligence and police agencies have cautioned that the inauguration could be a target for extremists.
A confidential threat assessment report from these agencies indicated that "foreign terrorists, domestic extremists, and lone wolves might engage in bomb hoaxes, swatting calls (false complaints to distract security), drone incursions, or vehicle-ramming attacks," as reported by Politico.
