Trump Signals Policy Shift as Minnesota Immigration Operation Scaled Back

US President Donald Trump indicated on Wednesday that a “softer touch” might be necessary in handling immigration enforcement, following nationwide scrutiny over recent operations in Minneapolis. The president’s comments came as his administration announced the withdrawal of 700 federal officers from the state, while affirming that broader deportation efforts would continue.

The decision follows public outrage after two Minneapolis residents were fatally shot by federal agents during immigration operations last month. The incidents sparked protests and intensified calls for reform of enforcement tactics in the region. Speaking in an interview, Trump acknowledged the need for a more measured approach but emphasized that law enforcement would remain firm.

Federal authorities will reduce their presence in Minneapolis from 2,700 to roughly 2,000 personnel. Acting Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) chief Tom Homan explained that the drawdown would allow more officers to focus on taking custody of individuals from local jails rather than street-level operations, a strategy requiring fewer agents.

Local leaders cautiously welcomed the reduction. Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey described the move as a “step in the right direction,” while Governor Tim Walz called for an accelerated withdrawal and state-led investigations into the fatalities. Both officials have stressed the need to end the aggressive federal crackdown known as the “Metro Surge.”

Despite the scale-back, Homan and the White House stressed that deportations would continue nationwide. “Enforcement actions remain a priority. Mass removals are ongoing, and the administration is committed to maintaining them,” Homan said. Trump reiterated his support for federal officers and ICE, framing their work as essential to national security.

The deaths of 37-year-old Renee Good and nurse Alex Pretti, both US citizens, drew widespread condemnation and international attention. Trump expressed regret over the incidents, calling them “very sad,” while defending the officers involved.

In response to public pressure, the administration replaced Customs and Border Protection commander Gregory Bovino with Homan, whose policy-focused approach aims to reduce confrontations while maintaining operational objectives.

Officials said the strategy shift will be implemented immediately, with continued monitoring of enforcement

The debate over immigration enforcement in Minneapolis has highlighted broader tensions in US policy, balancing strict immigration measures with public safety and civil rights concerns. Federal authorities assert that operations will persist nationwide, but the Minnesota adjustment signals a potential recalibration in approach amid mounting scrutiny.