US: Trump to call on National Guard to quell protests

U.S. President Donald Trump said on Thursday he will call on the National Guard to quell violent protests in Portland.

Trump was speaking as Oregon police prepared Thursday to take over protecting a federal courthouse in Portland that’s been a target of violent protests, in a deal between the Democratic governor and the Trump administration.

That aimed to draw down the federal presence and offered hope for a much-needed detente in a city roiled by two months of unrest.

Trump insisted that U.S. officers would stay in Portland until the violence was under control.

"Our people are staying there to see whether or not they could do it today and tomorrow. And if they don't do it, we will send in the National Guard and we'll take care of it," Trump told reporters.

In preparation for the handover, state troopers, the local sheriff and Portland police met and agreed not to use tear gas except in cases where there’s a danger of serious injury or death, Mayor Ted Wheeler said.

Federal agents sent to the city in early July have used it nightly as protesters lob rocks, fireworks and other objects.