Japan has deployed troops to Akita prefecture to assist in managing a surge of bear attacks that have caused injuries and fatalities, with authorities seeking to control the growing bear population and protect residents amid challenges like aging hunters and depopulated areas.
The number of National Guard troops in Washington is increasing, with support from several Republican-led states, but their role remains limited to supporting law enforcement and tourist areas, with unclear rules on arming and deployment specifics amid ongoing political tensions.
A federal court is hearing arguments that former President Trump violated the Posse Comitatus Act by deploying troops to Los Angeles, amidst broader political and legal controversies.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth admitted he did not know the legal authority President Trump was using to deploy troops to Los Angeles protests, but believed Trump had the authority. The deployment, involving thousands of National Guard troops and Marines, was challenged legally by California's governor, and cost an estimated $134 million. Hegseth's testimony highlighted uncertainty about the legal justification for military involvement in civilian law enforcement.