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National Guard on Standby: Lawmakers Push for Drone Defense at World Cup

U.S. lawmakers propose National Guard support to secure World Cup matches from drone threats

In a bold move to fortify security at this summer’s World Cup, two U.S. lawmakers have urged the National Guard to assist in protecting matches from potential drone risks. Citing the Guard’s rapid deployment capabilities and cross-state coordination, the lawmakers argue that their involvement could be pivotal in mitigating unexpected threats.

In a letter sent last week to top security officials, the House Homeland Security members raised concerns about fragmented safety plans across different cities and event organizers. They warn that poor coordination could create dangerous vulnerabilities. Enter the National Guard—ready to bridge those gaps and safeguard airspace around stadiums.

While security experts remain tight-lipped on the proposal, the push comes amid heightened anxieties over public safety, following a recent shooting at a major Washington event. Yet, officials maintain confidence that the World Cup will proceed without incident.

The lawmakers also emphasize the accelerating pace of drone technology, insisting that the Guard must be primed to intercept unauthorized flights near venues. Their vision? A centralized security command, unifying efforts instead of relying solely on local police or federal agencies.

With the clock ticking, the stage is set for a high-stakes debate on how best to ensure the safety of one of the world’s most-watched sporting events.