US President Donald Trump has taken a decisive stance against drug and human trafficking by announcing tariffs on goods from Canada and Mexico. These measures aim to compel these neighboring countries to curb illicit activities across their borders with the United States. Initially set to begin in early February, the tariffs have been postponed following negotiations with Canada and Mexico, who offered concessions to delay the implementation.
In a move to exert further pressure on undocumented immigration, Trump signed an executive order on January 20. This directive instructed military leaders to deploy "as many units or members of the Armed Forces" as necessary to secure "complete operational control" of the US-Mexico border. Additionally, the order called for the US Secretary of Transportation to waive restrictions on "unmanned aerial systems" within eight kilometers of the border.
The deployment of approximately 5,000 active-duty soldiers to the southern border with Mexico is part of Trump's broader strategy. This fulfills a significant campaign promise to declare a "national emergency" at this critical juncture. General Gregory Guillot, head of US Northern Command, has indicated that the number of troops may increase. He emphasized the importance of airborne intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) in countering cartel actions, stating:
“That is primarily through airborne ISR to get more information on those and figure out how we can counter their actions.” – General Gregory Guillot
The increased military presence also features a "significant increased maritime presence in cooperation with the Coast Guard," according to General Guillot. This is part of a strategy to address the national security risks posed by drug cartels, which Trump has designated as "foreign terrorist organizations." The administration views these cartels as a major driver of illegal migration into the United States.
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum has acknowledged the US military's surveillance activities but expressed no alarm, as these operations are currently confined to US soil.
“This is not the first time that there have been flights of this type, it’s not out of nowhere,” – Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum
In response to Trump's initiatives, President Sheinbaum has deployed 10,000 members of Mexico's National Guard to their northern border. This move aims to combat drug trafficking and irregular migration. However, Mexico regards Trump's rhetoric on immigration as a severe infringement on its sovereignty.
In addition to military efforts, Trump's "border czar," Tom Homan, has warned of potential conflicts between US troops and cartels due to increased military presence.
“Absolutely, because the cartels are making record amounts of money,” – Tom Homan, Trump’s “border czar”
The US military is stepping up its efforts in cross-border intelligence operations. General Guillot confirmed an increase in uniquely military capabilities aimed at targeting cartels responsible for illegal migration.
“We have also increased some uniquely military capabilities that will get after … the cartels, which are driving the illegal migration,” – General Gregory Guillot
