A US Air Force Boeing C-40B Clipper, often described as a 'flying war room', has departed Washington DC and is heading towards the midwestern United States. The jet, which left Camp Springs early this morning, is typically used to transport high-security government officials and military leaders. Its destination and mission remain unknown.
The deployment comes as unrest over Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operations grows across the country. In Minneapolis, a second US citizen has been killed by ICE agents during protests. Alex Pretti, 37, was shot dead while filming officers and protesting immigration raids. Video evidence shows Pretti did not draw his legally carried weapon before being sprayed with chemical irritant and shot.
Border Patrol Commander Gregory Bovino has defended the killing, claiming agents were 'the real victims' and that Pretti brought 'a loaded weapon to a riot'. Bovino and other officials are set to leave Minneapolis, replaced by Trump's 'border tsar', Tom Homan. Meanwhile, a Minnesota judge has ordered ICE head Todd Lyons to appear in court to explain why he should not be held in contempt. It is unclear if Lyons is aboard the C-40B.
Protests have intensified nationwide following Pretti's death and the earlier killing of Renee Good, both US citizens. ICE agents have claimed both victims were 'impeding operations' to justify the shootings.
