A Timeline of Major Events Since ICE Agents Arrived in Minnesota

Minneapolis, MN (Minnesota Now) -- Federal immigration enforcement became a major focus in Minnesota in late 2025 following the launch of Operation Metro Surge, a large-scale deployment of ICE and U.S. Border Patrol agents into the Twin Cities metro area and surrounding communities. What began as a federal enforcement effort quickly developed into a series of high-profile events that have drawn statewide and national attention.

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Since the beginning of January 2026, Minnesota has seen fatal and non-fatal shootings involving federal agents, large public protests and vigils, and legal action by state and city leaders.

ST. PAUL, MINNESOTA - JANUARY 23: U.S. Border Patrol agents are confronted by observers in the parking lot of the Asian grocery store Dragon Star Oriental Foods on January 23, 2026 in St. Paul, Minnesota. The Trump administration has sent a reported 3,000 federal agents into the area, with more on the way, as they make a push to arrest undocumented immigrants in the region. (Photo by Stephen Maturen/Getty Images)

Governor Tim Walz, Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey, and St. Paul Mayor Melvin Carter have called for oversight and accountability. At the same time, federal officials continue to defend their actions as necessary enforcement measures.

Below is a timeline of the key developments tied to ICE’s expanded presence in Minnesota.

Timeline: How ICE’s Arrival Sparked Protests, Lawsuits, and Deadly Encounters in Minnesota

Since federal immigration agents arrived in Minnesota as part of “Operation Metro Surge,” the state has seen a rapid series of high-profile events, including fatal shootings, mass protests, court battles, and growing tension between federal authorities and local leaders. This timeline breaks down the key moments that shaped the escalating standoff and reshaped daily life across Minneapolis, St. Paul, and communities statewide.

Gallery Credit: Minnesota Now

50 Biggest Sources of Immigrants to Minnesota, Ranked

Minnesota is home to people from every corner of the globe. Using the latest U.S. Census data analyzed by Stacker, this gallery ranks the countries with the largest immigrant populations living in Minnesota today.

Gallery Credit: Minnesota Now