Trump visits top landmarks in DC, stops by gift shop near White House amid military crackdown

Trump’s stroll around the city came as his administration intensified its security crackdown in the Capital. According to AP, officials announced 76 arrests across Washington the previous evening, while the Pentagon confirmed National Guard troops would soon begin patrolling with weapons.

“We are going to make DC totally safe,” Trump said after touring the People’s House exhibit. “They’re not going to go home in a body bag… They’re not going home in a coffin, and it’s very safe right now.”

Despite the assurances, residents and visitors expressed unease, with critics warning the administration was stoking racialised fears about crime and dismantling homeless encampments.

Trump’s plans to rename the Kennedy Centre

At the John F. Kennedy Center, Trump privately viewed materials to be used for planned refurbishments, including the new marble. He also plans to get its signature columns repainted from gold to white.

He joked about his plan to considered renaming the venue as “Trump Kennedy Centre,” but added, “We’re not prepared to do that quite yet. Maybe in a week or so.”

The president also revealed he would oversee renovations of the bathroom of the White House’s Lincoln Bedroom, which he claims underwent changes last in 2005. “We’re making it actually incredible,” he said, AP quoted. Trump floated additional upgrades for the Old Executive Office Building, calling it “such a beautiful building, but it doesn’t look it.”

Later in the day, Trump met FIFA President Gianni Infantino, along with Vice President JD Vance, in the Oval Office to confirm the Kennedy Center will host the draw for the 2026 World Cup on December 5. The US is co-hosting next year’s tournament — which for the first time will feature 48 national teams up from 32 — with Canada and Mexico, AP reported.

A former football team owner, Trump has been eager to promote major international sporting events during his second term, including the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles.

“We’re spending a lot of money wisely and making it really beautiful,” Trump said, as per AP.

The World Cup kicks off on June 11, 2026 at the Azteca Stadium in Mexico City and runs through the final on July 19 at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. Games will be played in 16 cities across the three countries, AP noted.

(With inputs from AP)

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