A significant military presence is currently established along the United States’ southern border with Mexico, with approximately 5,000 active-duty soldiers deployed as part of President Donald Trump’s ongoing efforts to tighten immigration controls. General Gregory Guillot, who leads U.S. Northern Command, informed lawmakers that this number may rise as the situation evolves.
The military’s operations have intensified, particularly in areas concerning cross-border intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR), with a focus on combating drug cartels, which are seen as a major factor contributing to illegal migration. General Guillot stated, “We have also increased some uniquely military capabilities that will get after … the cartels, which are driving the illegal migration,” emphasizing the use of airborne ISR to gather critical information.
This military buildup aligns with President Trump’s campaign promise to declare a “national emergency” at the border. On the first day of his second term, Trump signed an executive order directing military leaders to deploy as many troops as necessary to achieve “complete operational control” of the border area. He also instructed the U.S. Secretary of Transportation to lift restrictions on unmanned aerial systems within five miles of the border, further enhancing surveillance capabilities.
Trump’s administration has consistently framed undocumented immigration as an “invasion,” with a narrative that positions migrants as criminals. This stance has been a cornerstone of his re-election campaign, which includes plans for mass deportations. Additionally, Trump has pressured neighboring countries like Mexico and Canada to take stronger measures against undocumented immigration, even threatening tariffs on goods from these nations to curb drug trafficking and migration.
In a notable development, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum has responded to these pressures by deploying 10,000 members of her country’s National Guard to the U.S. border to address concerns over drug trafficking and irregular migration. Negotiations between the U.S. and its neighbors have led to temporary pauses on the anticipated tariffs, reflecting a complex diplomatic landscape surrounding these issues.
Critics of the military’s increased role in border security have raised alarms about potential violations of human rights, particularly regarding the treatment of asylum seekers. They argue that not all irregular migration is illegal and that international law protects the rights of those fleeing persecution.
Trump’s administration has also taken steps to designate Mexican drug cartels as “foreign terrorist organizations,” citing them as a national security threat. This designation has raised concerns about the possibility of direct military action against these cartels, which could escalate tensions between the U.S. and Mexico. Former immigration officials have suggested that the increased military presence may lead to violent clashes with cartels, who are profiting significantly from drug trafficking.
While the Mexican government has expressed concern over U.S. military rhetoric, President Sheinbaum has maintained a pragmatic approach, acknowledging the historical context of U.S. surveillance flights over Mexican territory. She stated that while they would seek explanations for such activities, they would do so as part of ongoing coordination with the United States.
As discussions continue regarding the need for increased maritime presence near Mexico, the situation remains fluid, with the potential for further developments in the U.S.-Mexico border dynamic.