U.S. defense officials say around 1,500 active-duty soldiers have been placed on standby for possible deployment to Minneapolis, Minnesota, amid growing unrest linked to protests in the city. The troops, drawn from the U.S. Army’s 11th Airborne Division based in Alaska, have received “prepare-to-deploy” orders, according to Pentagon officials. The move comes as protests intensified in Minneapolis in mid-January 2026, following controversial federal immigration enforcement actions. Demonstrations have drawn large crowds, raising concerns among federal authorities about the potential for viole

U.S. defense officials say around 1,500 active-duty soldiers have been placed on standby for possible deployment to Minneapolis, Minnesota, amid growing unrest linked to protests in the city. The troops, drawn from the U.S. Army’s 11th Airborne Division based in Alaska, have received “prepare-to-deploy” orders, according to Pentagon officials.

The move comes as protests intensified in Minneapolis in mid-January 2026, following controversial federal immigration enforcement actions. Demonstrations have drawn large crowds, raising concerns among federal authorities about the potential for violence and the ability of local forces to maintain order. So far, no active-duty troops have been deployed to the streets. Minnesota’s National Guard has been mobilized by state authorities and remains the primary force responsible for responding to the situation. However, the Pentagon says the standby order is meant to ensure readiness should conditions deteriorate.

President Trump warns of possible military action amid rising unrest in Minneapolis, Minnesota.

President Donald Trump has warned that he could consider invoking the Insurrection Act, which would allow the federal government to deploy active-duty military personnel domestically if state and local authorities are deemed unable to control unrest. Officials stress that the decision to deploy soldiers has not yet been made, but the preparations underline the seriousness of the situation in Minneapolis and the heightened federal response. Source: BBC

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