Defense Secretary Approves Fort Snelling to House Agents and Munitions for Twin Cities Operations

Minneapolis, Tuesday, 27 January 2026.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has formally authorized the Department of Homeland Security’s request to utilize Fort Snelling as a logistical base for ongoing immigration enforcement in Minneapolis. Confirmed via internal correspondence on January 26, 2026, this approval grants U.S. Customs and Border Protection access to the reserve center to house approximately 500 to 800 personnel, alongside tactical vehicles, aircraft, and munitions. This expansion of federal infrastructure within the interior United States occurs amidst “Operation Metro Surge,” a controversial campaign marked by the recent fatal shootings of two citizens and widespread civil unrest. While the administration reportedly considers de-escalation following discussions with Governor Tim Walz, the operational fortification of this historic base signals a continued, entrenched federal capability in the Twin Cities.