San José, California, 10 June 2025 (dpa/MIA) - The US military will deploy about 700 Marines to Los Angeles as protesters clash with immigration officials over the detention of undocumented migrants.

The US Northern Command said about 700 Marines would "seamlessly integrate" with other troops protecting federal personnel and property in the greater Los Angeles area.

"The activation of the Marines is intended to provide Task Force 51 with adequate numbers of forces to provide continuous coverage of the area in support of the lead federal agency," the command said in a statement.

US President Donald Trump ordered servicemen of the Californian National Guard into Los Angeles over the weekend, despite opposition from Governor Gavin Newsom. They were ordered to act against demonstrators protesting the sweeping raids targeting undocumented people by federal immigration agents.

Under normal circumstances, control of the National Guard lies with individual states. In times of war or national emergency, however, the president can assume command.

Trump takes the view that the situation in the West Coast city, where people have been demonstrating in large numbers since Friday against the actions of Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents, is out of control.

Local officials, including Newsom and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass, deny this.

Photo: EPA