Donald Trump called himself an “ally to all peaceful protesters” during a speech at the White House while police dressed in riot gear simultaneously clashed with peaceful protesters nearby.

The President addressed the unrest playing out across the US in response to the death of George Floyd. During his White House address, Trump expressed support for “peaceful” protesters while decrying the violent actions that have branched off from some protests.

“I am your president of law and order and an ally of all peaceful protesters, but in recent days our nation has been gripped by professional anarchists, violent mobs, arsonists, looters, criminals, rioters, Antifa, and others. We cannot allow the righteous cries of peaceful protesters to be drowned out by an angry mob. The biggest victims of the rioting are peace-loving citizens in our poorest communities and as their president, I will fight to keep them safe. I will fight to protect you”, - Trump said at his briefing.

But nearby, authorities were already clashing with peaceful protesters that had gathered near the White House to demonstrate ahead of the President’s remarks.