An attack near the White House that left two soldiers wounded sparks renewed concern, echoing Trump’s recent warnings about safety in host cities.
Just weeks after President Donald Trump voiced apprehension about security in U.S. World Cup host cities, those fears were thrust into the spotlight following a shooting in the nation’s capital. On Wednesday, two National Guard soldiers were shot and critically wounded less than two blocks from the White House in what Trump later described as “an act of terror.”
The suspect was quickly apprehended by a third service member, and Trump vowed that the perpetrator would “pay the steepest possible price.” However, the brazen attack has intensified doubts about America’s preparedness to safely host the global soccer tournament next summer.
The incident gives new weight to concerns Trump raised earlier this month. “The governors are going to have to behave. The mayors are going to have to behave,” he stated, directly addressing tournament security. “If we think there’s going to be any sign of any trouble, I would ask [FIFA President] Gianni [Infantino] to move that to a different city.”
Trump singled out Los Angeles, a key host city set to use the 70,000-seat SoFi Stadium, citing high crime rates. While expressing affection for the city, he suggested, “I would love to send in the National Guard or whoever is necessary to help them.”
In response, FIFA President Gianni Infantino, a close ally of Trump, assured the public that “safety and security is the No. 1 priority.” He promised a collaborative effort to ensure a secure tournament but stopped short of confirming if any games would be relocated.
With 16 North American cities, including 11 in the U.S., scheduled to host matches, the pressure is now on officials to convince the world that next summer’s celebration of soccer will not be marred by violence.
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