International-News

Trump accelerates anti-immigration crackdown: arrests at the Mexican border

Just days after taking office, the new administration launches an unprecedented crackdown on irregular immigration

Donald Trump has wasted no time. Less than a week after being sworn in for his second term, the US president has launched a series of operations aimed at combating illegal immigration, making good on his campaign promises.

US authorities have detained as many as 538 people illegally present in the country and deported hundreds of them on military flights, in what has been described as one of the first key moves of the Trump administration’s new course. ‘We have detained 538 illegal and criminal immigrants,’ Karoline Leavitt, the new White House spokeswoman, said in an announcement on social media, stressing that further action is on the way.

Military along the border: enhanced security with 1,500 soldiers

Trump has decided to strengthen the border with Mexico by deploying 1,500 soldiers in addition to the forces already present. According to sources, including the Washington Post, the plan is to increase the total to 10,000 in the coming months.

These new contingents, in addition to the 2,200 soldiers currently operating under Joint Task Force-North, will be tasked with supporting the border agency’s operations. The soldiers will provide logistical assistance, aerial surveillance and intelligence to identify threats and migrant flows, thus helping to make patrol operations more effective.

A divisive clampdown

This move is accompanied by the passage of a bill to tighten immigration regulations, expanding the criteria for detaining undocumented immigrants, even if they are only charged with minor offences.

Trump’s move leaves no room for misunderstanding: the president wants a firm and immediate approach to stop illegal immigration. However, this policy promises to raise heated debates, not only in the US, but also internationally.

The White House, however, has no doubts: ‘We will secure our southern border. This is just the beginning,’ reiterated Leavitt.

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