FORT BRAGG, North Carolina: US President Donald Trump on Tuesday claimed Los Angeles was being invaded by a “foreign enemy” and vowed to “liberate” the city after days of protests sparked by immigration raids. In a hard-line speech at one of the country’s biggest army bases, Trump described protesters as “animals” and got troops to boo the names of California Governor Gavin Newsom and ex-president Joe Biden. Trump has deployed thousands of troops including 700 active duty US Marines to Los Angeles, despite California authorities saying the move is unnecessary and will inflame the situation.

Tear gas and smoke have filled the air on the southern outskirts of Los Angeles as confrontations between immigration authorities and demonstrators extended into a second day.

California Governor Newsom called the decision ‘purposefully inflammatory’ as ICE agents clashed with crowds following immigration raids in the city.