Yesterday, 26 November 2025, a dramatic attack took place in the heart of Washington, DC, targeting two members of the West Virginia National Guard. The soldiers, who were serving in the US capital, were shot in an ambush near the White House. The perpetrator turned out to be 29-year-old Afghan national Rahmanullah Lakanwal, who arrived in the United States after the chaotic withdrawal of American troops from Afghanistan in 2021. President Donald Trump called it an “act of terror” and promised to swiftly bring the perpetrator to justice.
What Happened? Details of the Attack
The incident occurred in downtown Washington, just a few blocks from the White House. Two West Virginia National Guard soldiers were attacked by a lone gunman who opened fire from an ambush. Both victims were taken to hospital in critical condition, but according to the latest information their condition is stable, though still serious. Initially, West Virginia Governor Jim Justice reported that the soldiers had died, but those reports proved premature \u2013 both are fighting for their lives.
The attack triggered an immediate response from authorities \u2013 the scene was cordoned off by police and the FBI, which is leading the investigation within the Joint Terrorism Task Force. Investigators are examining the perpetrator’s motives, focusing on his ties to Afghanistan and possible radicalisation.
Who Is the Suspect? An Afghan Immigrant With a History of Working With the US
According to the US Department of Homeland Security (DHS), the suspect is Rahmanullah Lakanwal, a 29-year-old Afghan citizen. He arrived in the United States in 2021, shortly after American troops withdrew from his home country. He had previously worked with US forces in Afghanistan, which enabled 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, the man who shot two National Guard soldiers in Washington, previously worked for the US government.
He was a member of CIA partner forces in Kandahar, Afghanistan. – Post on platform X
The motive for the attack remains unclear. Investigators are checking whether it could have been an act of terror inspired by radical ideologies, or personal problems of the perpetrator. Trump said in a statement from the White House: “The hearts of all Americans are today with these two members of the National Guard and their families. We will make America completely safe again and bring the perpetrator of this barbaric attack to swift and certain justice.”
Reactions From Authorities and Society
President Trump responded quickly, calling the attack an “act of terror” and announcing tighter visa policy toward immigrants from high-risk countries. DHS announced temporary visa restrictions for Afghan citizens, which sparked controversy among human rights organisations.
West Virginia’s governor expressed solidarity with the victims: “Our thoughts and prayers are with our heroes and their families. This is an attack on all who serve our country.” On social media, including platform X, discussion centres on immigrant security and the consequences of the withdrawal from Afghanistan.
Context: The Afghanistan Withdrawal and Its Consequences
The attack fits into the broader context of the chaotic withdrawal of US forces from Afghanistan in 2021 under President Joe Biden. Thousands of Afghans who had cooperated with Americans then received visas and settled in the US. Many of them, like Lakanwal, had reportedly helped coalition forces, which exposed them to retaliation from the Taliban.
However, criticism is not lacking \u2013 experts point out that the immigrant vetting process may have been imperfect, leading to potential security risks. This incident may influence Trump’s immigration policy, as he promised a “golden age of America” with an emphasis on homeland security.
What's Next? Investigation Ongoing
The FBI continues its inquiry, examining the perpetrator’s phone and social media accounts for clues about motive. The soldiers remain in hospital, and their families are receiving support from state and federal authorities.
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