Donald Trump’s current strategy to reinforce the US–Mexico border

Donald Trump’s current strategy to reinforce the US–Mexico border is marked by a series of aggressive executive actions designed to tighten border security. Three major measures include:

1. Enhanced Military Deployment:
   Trump has ordered additional troops to be deployed along the southern border. Under his directive, the US Northern Command is tasked with supporting border security operations, which includes logistical assistance to detention facilities and providing backup to border patrol agents. This move signals a more militarized approach to controlling illegal immigration.

2. Resumption and Expansion of Border Wall Construction:
   Trump is pushing to resume—and accelerate—the construction of a physical barrier along the border. His administration aims to complete wall segments that were stalled or halted by the previous administration, arguing that a robust wall serves as a deterrent to illegal crossings.

3. Reinstatement of Strict Immigration Policies:
   A key component of his plan is to reinstitute policies such as the “Remain in Mexico” program. This policy requires asylum seekers to stay in Mexico while their claims are processed in the United States, and it also includes canceling digital tools (like the CBP One app) that previously facilitated legal entry. These steps are intended to sharply reduce illegal entries by tightening the processes for those seeking asylum

However, these measures have faced significant opposition. Critics offer at least three key reasons for their resistance:

1. Militarization and Human Rights Concerns:
   Opponents argue that deploying additional military forces at the border risks turning the border into a militarized zone. This can lead to excessive use of force and potential violations of human rights, as migrants and asylum seekers might be subjected to harsh treatment and intimidation.

2. Environmental and Economic Drawbacks of the Wall:
   The border wall is seen not only as extremely expensive but also as environmentally destructive. Critics contend that it disrupts local ecosystems, fragments wildlife habitats, and may ultimately be ineffective at stemming illegal immigration compared to other, less damaging, technologies and measures.

3. Harsh Impact on Asylum Seekers:
   Policies like “Remain in Mexico” force vulnerable asylum seekers to wait in often unsafe and overcrowded border cities. This not only exposes them to risks such as exploitation by criminal networks but also denies them timely access to due process and a safe environment while their claims are pending.

In summary, while Trump’s approach is designed to create a formidable physical and operational barrier along the border by leveraging military support, a renewed border wall, and strict immigration protocols, critics maintain that these measures are overly aggressive, environmentally and economically costly, and harmful to the rights and safety of migrants