"No no. Not at all," Trump told reporters at the Kennedy Center. The president claimed his administration would continue efforts to protect the country.
"We’ll do whatever we can to keep our country safe," he added.
Earlier Thursday, White House border czar Tom Homan revealed that Trump administration officials are developing a plan to "soon" reduce the number of ICE agents in the Twin Cities of Minneapolis and St. Paul.
Homan admitted shortcomings in the administration’s immigration enforcement but tied any reduction to potential agreements with state and local officials, citing ongoing "meaningful dialogue."
Tensions in Minnesota have surged over the past month due to widespread protests against ICE operations and shootings by federal immigration agents.
Demonstrations intensified after immigration officers killed Alex Pretti, a 37-year-old intensive care nurse, on Saturday, and Renee Nicole Good, a 37-year-old mother of three, on January 7.
The Pretti shooting sparked particular outrage, prompting local and state leaders to demand independent investigations and criticize federal cooperation with authorities.
Democrats have called on Trump to fire Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, who faces heavy scrutiny over the incidents.
However, the president quickly dismissed any suggestion that Noem might step down.