In a shocking turn of events, the suspect behind the shooting of two National Guards members in Washington, D.C., has been identified as an Afghan national who was granted asylum by the Trump administration just months ago. This revelation raises urgent questions about security protocols and the vetting processes for asylum seekers in the United States.
The suspect, 29-year-old Ramanula Lakanawal, entered the U.S. in September 2021 as part of Operation Allies Refugee, a program aimed at resettling Afghans fleeing the Taliban. After his visa expired, Lakanawal applied for asylum in December 2024 and was approved in April 2025, during the Trump administration. This timeline has sparked outrage and confusion as details surrounding the shooting continue to unfold.
Witnesses report that the shooting was premeditated, targeting the National Guards members who were performing their duties in the capital. As the investigation progresses, officials are scrambling to understand how a suspect with such a background was able to carry out such a violent act.
In a press conference earlier today, former President Trump attempted to shift blame, claiming that the Biden administration’s policies allowed Lakanawal to enter the country without proper oversight. Trump stated, “Nobody knew anything about it,” implying that the current administration is responsible for the suspect’s actions. However, the facts indicate that Lakanawal’s asylum was granted under Trump’s watch, complicating the narrative.
The FBI’s reassignment of resources to immigration enforcement has drawn criticism, with many arguing that it has weakened counterterrorism efforts. As the nation grapples with this violent incident, the focus is now on how the asylum system can be improved to prevent such tragedies in the future.
As the investigation continues, the two National Guards members remain in critical condition, and the nation watches closely for updates on their recovery and the unfolding legal proceedings against Lakanawal. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the complexities and challenges surrounding immigration and national security in America today.
