Veterans Arrested After Capitol Protest Against Military Presence

On Friday evening, June 13th, 2025, a significant protest unfolded outside the US Capitol in Washington D.C. About 60 veterans, organized by About Face: Veterans Against the War and Veterans for Peace, broke through a security barrier and conducted a sit-in on the Capitol steps. Their protest focused on condemning the increasing militarization of American communities. A TikTok video by @jolly_good_ginger captured the event, showing protesters holding signs like "Vets say military off our streets." One protester stated, "We're here to demand that the government take military off of United States streets." Following their peaceful sit-in, Capitol Police responded and proceeded to arrest the protesters. This action occurred just one day before the US Army's 250th birthday celebration, adding a layer of symbolic significance to the event. The protest is part of a larger movement, with over 2,000 "No Kings" protests planned for the following day in response to a planned military parade. The arrests highlight a growing tension between veteran activists and the government’s approach to domestic security.