WASHINGTON – The inauguration of President-elect Donald Trump is taking place within a highly fortified environment, described by U.S. officials as one of the most intricate and coordinated security efforts seen to date.

As Trump, Vice President-elect JD Vance, their families, and many dignitaries attended a service at St. John’s Church in Lafayette Square, the surrounding area—including the White House and Blair House—was secured with dump trucks, police vehicles, and black SUVs preventing access for vehicles.

Temporary fencing and vehicle blockades have been established near significant sites like the White House, the Capitol, and key intersections throughout the city to manage public access and regulate crowds. Special police teams, including canine units and surveillance drones, performed ongoing inspections.

An estimated 25,000 personnel from law enforcement and military services are situated in the city, incorporating 4,000 D.C. police officers along with additional aid from Capitol Police and the National Guard. During a news briefing on Sunday, D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser and federal officials mentioned that thousands of officers from various U.S. law enforcement agencies were also present.

There are also hidden security measures in play, such as surveillance systems and covert operatives monitoring for potential “lone wolf” attackers similar to those involved in recent violent episodes in New Orleans and Las Vegas, as per statements released by D.C. officials, the Secret Service, and the FBI.

Extraordinary Security, No Identifiable Threats

These remarkable security precautions have also been implemented following two notable assassination attempts on Trump during his 2024 campaign, according to officials.

However, the FBI released a statement on Sunday indicating there are no identified or credible threats towards the inauguration.

“The FBI is not tracking any specific or credible threats to the events surrounding the inauguration. We continue to collaborate closely with our partners to share intelligence and identify any potential threats that may arise,” noted the statement from the FBI’s Washington field office.

A National Special Security Event

The inauguration has been classified as a National Special Security Event (NSSE) by the Department of Homeland Security, placing the Secret Service in charge of a cooperative multi-agency effort to guarantee a seamless power transition.

This NSSE classification allows access to federal resources and requires detailed cooperation with agencies such as the FBI, Capitol Police, and the Department of Defense. For example, the FBI plays a crucial role in preventing possible terrorist attacks.

Quick Shift to Indoor Ceremony

Trump’s choice to shift the swearing-in ceremony completely indoors was solely based on weather conditions, as revealed by a federal law enforcement official acquainted with the inauguration’s security details speaking to YSL News.

“That decision was made entirely by the President due to weather concerns,” remarked the official, who requested anonymity to discuss ongoing safety strategies. He clarified that the Secret Service was “not monitoring any other situations” coupled with threats.

Shortly after the ceremonies were moved indoors, authorities swiftly organized, deploying more than two dozen law enforcement partners.

This logistical shift included extending the security perimeter at Capital One Arena, which was hosting around 20,000 guests who originally planned to view the inauguration at the Capitol, according to officials during the security update on Sunday.