Around 1,500 soldiers are on standby. These soldiers are from the 11th Airborne Division in Alaska. The U.S. government might send them to Minnesota. This shows a problem between federal agents and local cities. There are protests happening against immigration raids. The soldiers are ready since the weekend. Federal agents are still working in Minneapolis and St. Paul. These actions have caused public anger.
The soldiers might go because of the difficult situation in Minnesota. Federal immigration agents are doing operations. These operations have led to many protests. The protests became stronger recently. This happened after a person was shot by an agent. About 3,000 agents are doing arrests. The Mayor of Minneapolis is not happy. He said the federal agents are like an "occupying force."
A judge made an important order on Friday. The order limits how ICE agents can control crowds. They cannot arrest or use pepper spray on peaceful protesters. This comes after some bad events. A federal officer shot a person. Another person died in ICE custody. The ICE director said they arrested 2,500 people.
The 11th Airborne Division trains for cold weather. It is unusual for them to be ready for home deployment. The soldiers are still in Alaska. Their readiness shows the government is serious. Some people worry about using a law called the Insurrection Act. This law can send soldiers for law enforcement.
The situation makes people feel worried. The Mayor of Minneapolis is a strong critic. He feels the city is being militarized. Some protesters were injured. A baby and child needed hospital care. People have died during these events. Activists want answers and changes. We will see if soldiers are sent.