Pentagon sends more troops to U.S.-Mexico border, bringing total to 3,600
PBS NewsHourFEB 8
US Says 5K Troops Deployed at Mexico Border
Above: On Jan. 24, 2025, a US Army soldier locks a US-Mexico border barrier at Eagle Pass, Texas. On his first day in office, President Trump proclaimed a national emergency at the US-Mexico border. Image copyright: Charly Triballeau/Contributor/AFP via Getty Images
The Facts
Chief of the US Northern Command, Gen. Gregory Guillot, announced on Thursday that the US has so far deployed 5K troops to the border with Mexico since Pres. Donald Trump signed an executive order on Jan. 20 directing military leaders to reinforce the southern border.
Guillot added that this number is likely to rise as the military has ramped up its intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance operations targeting drug cartels, which are considered primary drivers of illegal migration, with a greater focus on airborne surveillance within five miles of the border.
This comes as Trump announced plans to impose 25% tariffs on Canadian and Mexican goods to combat drug and human trafficking, though both countries negotiated temporary exemptions, with Mexico agreeing to deploy 10K National Guard troops to its northern border.
The Spin
Republican narrative
The enhanced military presence at the border is essential for national security and controlling illegal immigration. The cartels pose an unacceptable security risk that requires a robust military response, including surveillance and potential direct action. The deployment of troops demonstrates a serious commitment to securing the border and protecting American interests.
Democratic narrative
The militarization of immigration enforcement is an expensive political stunt that compromises military readiness and wastes taxpayers' money. The operation costs three to four times more than civilian alternatives, while potentially violating international law regarding asylum seekers and Mexican sovereignty. The lack of transparency about costs and impact on readiness is deeply concerning.
Metaculus Prediction
Public Figures
The Controversies
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