The Global Story The President’s Path: Trump’s troops
Jun 13, 2025
Bernd Debusmann Jr., a senior reporter for the BBC, dives into the complex interplay between the Trump administration and the U.S. military. He discusses the recent deployment of National Guard units in response to unrest, highlighting the tensions between state and federal control. The conversation shifts to the politicization of the military and the impact of budget cuts on its operational capacity. Debusmann also addresses evolving recruitment strategies and the cultural challenges within the armed forces, concluding with a nod to the significance of military parades.
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National Guard vs Active Troops
- The National Guard operates under state control but can be federalized for national missions.
- Active duty troops have no other jobs and are fully committed to the military mission year-round.
Military Deployment Reflects Political Tensions
- The deployment of troops in states like California is a political conflict between the President and Governors.
- Such deployments often involve debates over state versus federal control of National Guard units.
Trump's Pro-Military Approach
- The Trump administration seeks to portray itself as the most pro-military in U.S. history.
- They emphasize strength, security, and removing operational restrictions from the military.