In an unprecedented move, the government of the United States, led by President Donald Trump, has ordered the deployment of regular troops from the Army and Marine Corps to the border with Mexico.
This decision aims to strengthen security measures in the region and stop the flow of migrants attempting to cross into U.S. territory.
The operation, described as historic, involves the deployment of more than 1,500 troops, including 500 members of the Marine Corps and Navy personnel, who will join the 2,200 National Guard members and 4,500 reservists already stationed in the area.
According to the White House, these additional forces have the mission to "protect and defend the territorial integrity of the United States."
The deployment is taking place in border states such as California, Baja California, Sonora, Chihuahua, Coahuila, Nuevo León, and Tamaulipas, where temporary camps and surveillance points have been established.
In images released by the White House, troops can be seen arriving by helicopter and military aircraft, marching armed toward their assigned positions. These operations also include the use of helicopters for aerial reconnaissance and personnel transport.
The executive order signed by Trump establishes an increase in personnel at the border to assist the Customs and Border Protection (CBP) agency, one of the largest in the United States, whose primary mission is to prevent the entry of terrorists, weapons, and irregular migrants.
According to the Department of Defense, the deployment not only involves the presence of ground troops but also the use of military aircraft, such as C-47 planes, for the deportation of migrants.
In a statement, the White House confirmed that the first deportation flight of this kind has already been carried out to Guatemala, transporting 80 detained migrants.
This is the first deployment of regular troops at the border, as previously only National Guard personnel and reservists had been used.
However, U.S. law, specifically the Posse Comitatus Act, prohibits the armed forces from performing civil tasks such as the detention or custody of migrants.
Therefore, their role is limited to support functions such as surveillance, repair of physical barriers, and intelligence analysis.
The White House highlighted the deployment as a fulfillment of a campaign promise by Trump. On social media, the administration posted: "Promise made –> Promise KEPT!".
However, this measure has generated controversy, with critical sectors arguing that it militarizes an area that has historically been managed by civilian authorities.
For its part, the Pentagon announced that these forces will support enhanced detection and surveillance, as well as the installation and repair of physical barriers along the border.
Additionally, First Lieutenant Troy Garza reported that the helicopters have identified key points along the border to establish operation bases and support the tasks of the CBP.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Deployment of Troops at the Border with Mexico
Why were troops deployed at the border with Mexico?
The deployment of troops at the border with Mexico was ordered by former President Donald Trump with the aim of strengthening security and halting the flow of migrants into the United States. This action is part of a series of security measures that include logistical support to the Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and the use of military aircraft for deportations.
How many military personnel were deployed at the border?
The deployment at the border included over 1,500 additional military personnel, adding to the 2,200 National Guard members and 4,500 reservists already present. This represents a significant increase in active forces in the region since Trump took office.
What roles do the troops deployed on the border have?
The troops deployed at the border have a supportive role that includes surveillance, repair of physical barriers, and intelligence analysis. Although they are present in the area, they cannot carry out civil tasks such as detaining or guarding migrants due to the Posse Comitatus Act.
How has the international community reacted to these measures?
The measures taken by the Trump administration have drawn strong criticism from human rights organizations, which argue that these actions could violate rights and exacerbate diplomatic tensions with countries in Latin America. However, the administration insists that these measures are necessary to secure the border.
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