President Donald Trump has issued orders for the deployment of additional military units to support the Department of Homeland Security at the southern border. This action comes after Trump declared a national emergency at the border, allowing for the expanded use of Defense Department resources.
The executive order directs the secretaries of defense and homeland security to collaborate with the Attorney General in revising policies to ensure the safety of DOD and DHS personnel through prioritized use of force policies.
Trump emphasized the importance of protecting America's sovereignty, stating that the situation at the border poses a significant threat to the nation. The Armed Forces have been tasked with assisting DHS in gaining full operational control of the southern border.
Another executive order has instructed the secretary of defense to provide planning requirements and assessments related to NORTHCOM's mission of securing the borders and upholding the territorial integrity and security of the United States.
A defense official confirmed the Pentagon's commitment to executing the orders promptly and efficiently under the leadership of the Commander-In-Chief.
Currently, there are approximately 2,200 active-duty forces deployed at the border as part of Joint Task Force-North, operating under US Northern Command. These troops are engaged in various activities such as data entry, vehicle maintenance, transportation, training, and detection and monitoring.
The specifics of a potential troop surge at the border remain unclear, with further details expected to be outlined in a formal request to the departments of defense and homeland security.
