The pistols and powerful rifles guard members carry are similar to those local police use across the country. Troops have been told to use their weapons only as a last resort.

President Donald Trump said he is still prepared to order National Guard troops to other American cities but that he wanted local officials to request his help.

President Donald Trump’s National Guard directive was issued as he touts his efforts to assert control over D.C. and muses about deploying troops to other major U.S. cities.