Minneapolis: US President Donald Trump stated on Wednesday that the recent fatal shootings by federal agents in Minneapolis might lead to a more tempered approach in immigration enforcement operations. This announcement comes in light of two incidents last month where US citizens were shot by federal agents.

According to Anadolu Agency, Trump expressed in an interview with NBC News that while a softer approach might be considered, maintaining a tough stance remains essential. He emphasized the need for balance, reflecting on the events in Minneapolis as a potential catalyst for change in enforcement strategies.

Trump revealed that he had reached out to state and local officials following the shootings, engaging in what he described as productive conversations with the governor and mayor. Despite these efforts, he noted their subsequent public criticism, questioning the acknowledgment of his attempts to address the issue.

The president's remarks are part of an ongoing conflict with Minnesota Governor Tim Walz and Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey. Both officials have criticized Trump's immigration policies and condemned the deaths of Renee Good and Alex Pretti during the enforcement operations in the Twin Cities, which have been under intensified federal scrutiny for over two months.

As investigations into the January 7 and January 24 incidents continue, Trump's border czar, Tom Homan, announced a withdrawal of 700 federal immigration and border patrol agents from Minneapolis. This decision is linked to improved cooperation from local counties, which have allowed Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers to take custody of migrants directly from their jails.

Trump also clarified that the reduction in federal presence was a strategic decision, contingent upon local authorities releasing detainees. The president highlighted the importance of targeting individuals involved in serious crimes, emphasizing that the decision was not made arbitrarily but in response to the situation on the ground.