The UK Foreign Office has issued a new travel warning for anyone planning to fly to the United States. In the latest update, officials advise travelers to exercise caution, especially if visiting California, with a particular emphasis on Los Angeles. In travel advice for the USA, under the title “Los Angeles demonstrations and protests”, they warn travellers of the latest developments coming to the city.
They warn: “Demonstrations and protests are taking place in Los Angeles. Media reports suggest the police response has included use of flash-bangs, tear gas, pepper balls, and rubber/sponge bullets.”
Because of this, they urge that travellers should:
- monitor local media and follow the advice of the local authorities
- plan ahead to avoid disruption
- stay away from crowds and demonstrations
The warning comes amid rising tensions in Los Angeles, following President Donald Trump’s deployment of hundreds of National Guard troops in response to protests over his administration’s crackdown on illegal immigration. California Governor Gavin Newsom said in a press release: “The federal government is moving to take over the California National Guard and deploy 2,000 soldiers. That move is purposefully inflammatory and will only escalate tensions.
“LA authorities are able to access law enforcement assistance at a moment’s notice. We are in close coordination with the city and county, and there is currently no unmet need. The Guard has been admirably serving LA throughout recovery. This is the wrong mission and will erode public trust.”
On social media, he branded the President as a liar, writing: “Donald Trump is a stone cold liar” as he posted on X a video clip of him on the news, speaking out against the enforcement. He also wrote on X: “California — Don’t give Donald Trump what he wants. Speak up. Stay peaceful.
“Stay calm. Do not use violence and respect the law enforcement officers that are trying their best to keep the peace.”
Around 4million people live in LA, with BBC News reporting clashes began in LA on Friday after Immigration Customs Enforcement – known as ICE – carried out immigration across the city. They note: “The BBC’s US partner, CBS, reports that operations took place in the city, in the Westlake District and south LA. As many as 118 arrests were made in LA this week as a result of ICE operations, including 44 on Friday. California Governor Gavin Newsom has condemned the raids as “cruel”.
“The Federal Building in downtown LA later became the focus of demonstrations, after it emerged that detainees were allegedly being held in the building.”
The building was subjected to graffiti with objects were thrown at police, CBS reports, leading to an unlawful assembly declaration. The BBC add: “On Saturday, the LA County Sheriff’s Department said another protest broke out in the city of Paramount over what appeared to be another immigration raid.
“As many as 400 people were involved in the protests, LA County Sheriff Robert Luna said. The department then declared an unlawful assembly in an attempt to disperse demonstrators “without any violence”.”