Former U.S. President Donald Trump has once again escalated tensions by calling for the deployment of federal troops to Portland, Oregon, claiming the city is under siege by what he called “domestic terrorists.” In a post on Truth Social Saturday, Trump directed the Department of Defense to send in troops, referring to Portland as "war-ravaged" and authorizing the use of “full force, if necessary.”

"I am directing Secretary of War, Pete Hegseth, to provide all necessary Troops to protect war-ravaged Portland, and any of our ICE Facilities under siege from attack by Antifa, and other domestic terrorists,” Trump wrote. “I am also authorizing Full Force, if necessary.”

His remarks follow claims that demonstrators in Portland were attempting to burn down federal buildings. “It’s every night, and they’ve done it for years,” Trump said on Friday. “We’re going to get out there and do a pretty big number on those people in Portland. They’re professional agitators and anarchists.”

Earlier this month, Trump described Portland as “like living in hell,” and hinted at the possibility of federal intervention. His latest directive follows similar federal actions or threats in cities like Washington D.C., Chicago, and Baltimore as part of a broader promise to crack down on crime.

However, Portland city and state leaders have strongly pushed back, urging residents to remain calm. Mayor Keith Wilson warned of a likely increase in federal presence, particularly near Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) facilities. “This may be a show of force, but that’s all it is—a show,” he told local media.

Senator Jeff Merkley accused Trump of attempting to provoke a violent confrontation. “Let us not grant him that,” he said, calling on Portlanders “not to take the bait.” Representative Maxine Dexter added, “The Portland we love will not be divided.”

Senator Ron Wyden echoed those sentiments, calling Portland a “peaceful, vibrant city” and warned against falling into Trump’s trap. “Just like in 2020, I will oppose any unjustified increase in federal forces,” Wyden stated.

As tensions rise, local leaders continue to call for unity, urging citizens not to be drawn into what they see as a politically motivated escalation.