The Trump administration confirms the complete withdrawal of ICE agents from Minnesota following the controversial Operation Metro Surge, which sparked mass protests and resulted in the deaths of two American citizens. Tom Homan, the White House’s border czar, announced the end of this intensive campaign launched last December in Minneapolis and surrounding areas. Federal authorities declare satisfactory results with thousands of arrests of undocumented immigrants considered criminals. ONU experts continue to question the excessive use of lethal force during the raids.
READ MORE: United States and Iran Hold Talks in Oman on Iran Nuclear Program
Homan details closure of operation
Tom Homan explains that he proposes, and President Trump agrees, to conclude Operation Metro Surge immediately. Federal agents make more than 4,000 arrests in two months of intensive deployment in Minneapolis-St. Paul. Homan highlights greater coordination with state and local officials, which facilitates an orderly withdrawal. ICE and CBP teams reassign personnel to other regions of the country to continue national efforts.
Homan states that Minnesota will no longer function as a sanctuary state for undocumented criminals. Local authorities will hand over deportable prisoners directly to federal authorities. Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey confirms positive meetings with Homan to reduce federal presence. Democratic Governor Tim Walz anticipates an end in days during previous talks with the government, the full retreat begins this week and extends into the next period.
Deaths Spark International Criticism
ICE and CBP agents shoot and kill Renée Good and Alex Pretti, both US citizens, in separate incidents in January. Good and Pretti die during clashes in urban raids in Minneapolis. Authorities suspend two agents after the fatal shooting of Pretti, 37. Protests erupt across the country against the use of lethal force in immigration operations.
Six ONU rapporteurs issue joint statement describing the events as possible extrajudicial killings. Experts identify arbitrary deprivation of life and serious violations of international law. Rapporteurs on extrajudicial executions, torture and freedom of assembly sign public warning. ONU documents pattern of abuses in Operation Metro Surge with warrantless raids. Rapporteurs urge accountability for those responsible for violations.
Pattern of Violence in Raids
Since December, thousands of armed agents have been carrying out aggressive arrests near schools and hospitals. Racial profiling drives militarised raids without warrants, according to the ONU. Excessive force affects suspected undocumented immigrants, peaceful protesters and innocent bystanders. Operation peaks with 3,000 additional agents on the ground in Minnesota.
The Trump administration labels detainees as dangerous illegal criminals despite arrests of children and citizens. Homan initially reduced the number of agents by 700 last week, leaving 2,000 on site. Local cooperation increases and reduces the need for a massive federal presence. The White House insists that deportations continue without a national pause.
Consequences of Operation Metro Surge
- More than 4,000 arrests achieve federal objectives in two intensive months.
- Two deaths of US citizens spark national protests and UN scrutiny.
- Total withdrawal reassigns agents to other mass deportation operations.
- Minnesota improves coordination with local jails for direct transfers.
Reacciones Locales al Repliegue
Minnesota officials celebrate end of tensions with departure of federal agents. Mayor Frey and Governor Walz coordinate peaceful transition in Minneapolis. Homan personally oversees the drawdown during visits to the state. Trump maintains an agenda of mass deportations despite criticism for handling of the situation.
READ MORE: Satellite Images Show Significant Buildup of U.S. Military Forces Near Iran
Trump administration executes a total ICE withdrawal after successes in Minnesota. Tom Homan relocates forces to ongoing national priorities. State authorities assume normal control of routine immigration with 150 permanent agents. Operation Metro Surge marks a controversial milestone in the 2026 border policy.
