Yesterday, November 26, 2025, in the heart of Washington DC there was a dramatic attack on two West Virginia National Guard members. Soldiers who served in the U.S. capital were shot in an ambush near the White House.The perpetrator turned out to be a 29-year-old Afghanman, Rahmanullah Lakanwal, who came to the United States after the chaotic withdrawal of American troops from Afghanistan in 2021.. President Donald Trump called it "the act of terror" and announced that the perpetrator was quickly held accountable.
What happened? Details of the attack
The incident occurred in downtown Washington, just a few blocks from the White House. Two Western Virginia National Guard soldiers were attacked by a lone gunman who opened fire from an ambush. Both victims were hospitalized in critical condition, but according to the latest reports, their condition is stable, although still serious.Initially, West Virginia State Governor Jim Justice reported the deaths of soldiers, but these reports proved premature – both fighting for their lives.
The attack sparked an immediate response from the services – the scene was surrounded by police and the FBI, which is investigating the Joint Terrorism Task Force. Investigators investigate the motives of the perpetrator, focusing on his ties to Afghanistan and possible radicalism.
Who's the culprit? Afghan immigrant with history of cooperation with the US
According to U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS), the suspect is Rahmanullah Lakanwal, a 29-year-old citizen of Afghanistan. He arrived in the United States in 2021, shortly after the withdrawal of American troops from his homeland. He had previously collaborated with US forces in Afghanistan, allowing him to obtain a visa and settle in America. DHS confirmed that Lakanwal was arrested at the scene and is currently in custody.
Rahmanullah Lakanwal, a man who shot two National Guard soldiers in Washington DC, had previously worked for the United States government.
He was a member of CIA partner forces in Kandahar, Afghanistan. – Post on platform X
HOLY SH*T:
Rahmanullah Lakanwal, the man who shot two National Guard in D.C. used to work with the U.S. government.
He worked with the CIA, as a member of a partner force in Kandahar, Afghanistan.pic.twitter.com/oBF48q0w93
BREAKING – The National Guard shooter has been identified as Rahmanullah Lakanwal, an Afghan illegal who entered the United States under the Biden administration in 2021 and reportedly yellowed "Allahu Akbar" during the attack.pic.twitter.com/h3KklqepoQ
The motive for the attack remains unclear. Investigators are investigating whether it may have been an act of terror inspired by radical ideologies or personal problems of the perpetrator. Trump stated in a statement from the White House: "The hearts of all Americans today are with these two members of the National Guard and their families. We will make America completely safe again and pull the perpetrator of this barbarian attack into swift and certain justice."
Uptade 2: However, both soldiers live, although they are still in critical condition. Earlier, the Governor of the State of West Virginia, from which they came, reported their deaths. According to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, the shooter who was caught came from...https://t.co/8RgBvRvGbQ
President Trump responded quickly by calling the attack "the act of terror" and announcing a tightening of visa policy towards high-risk immigrants. DHS announced temporary visa restrictions for Afghan citizens, which sparked controversy among human rights organisations.
The Governor of West Virginia expressed solidarity with the victims: "Our thoughts and prayers are with our heroes and their families. It's an attack on everyone who serves our country." On social media, including platform X, the discussion is about the security of immigrants and the consequences of withdrawal from Afghanistan.
Background: Withdrawal from Afghanistan and its consequences
The attack falls within the wider context of the chaotic withdrawal of US forces from Afghanistan in 2021 for the presidency of Joe Biden. Then thousands of Afghans who worked with the Americans received visas and settled in the United States. Many of them, like Lakanwal, were to help coalition troops, which put them at risk for Taliban retaliation.
However, there are no shortages of criticisms – experts indicate that the process of verification of immigrants may have been imperfect, leading to potential security threats. This event could affect Trump's immigration policy, which promised "the golden age of America" with an emphasis on internal security.
What's next? Investigation ongoing
The FBI continues to investigate the unsub's phone and social accounts in search of clues about motive. Soldiers remain in hospital and their families receive support from state and federal authorities.
