Mexico strengthens border with 10,000 troops amid U.S. tensions over tariffs

Mexico has stationed 10,000 troops along its northern border, responding to recent tariffs imposed by U.S. President Donald Trump. 

The sudden deployment reflects heightened efforts to address concerns over illegal immigration and drug trafficking, while also reinforcing security between Mexico and the U.S.

According to reports from the Associated Press (AP), a large convoy of Mexico’s National Guard and military vehicles was spotted on Thursday along the border between Ciudad Juárez and El Paso, Texas. 

Similar patrols were observed in Tijuana, where members of the National Guard were seen monitoring the area.

During their patrols, soldiers discovered ladders and ropes believed to have been used by illegal immigrants attempting to scale the border fence into the United States. 

These findings align with ongoing concerns about unauthorized crossings.

President Donald Trump had been vocal about imposing a 25% tariff on Mexico since his presidential campaign in November last year, citing concerns over immigration and drug smuggling. 

However, just last week, Trump delayed the tariff for one month, providing a temporary reprieve.

In response, Mexico’s President Claudia Sheinbaum made a commitment to strengthen security along the border, deploying the National Guard and promising to combat the dangerous trafficking of fentanyl, a potent drug that has been a major concern for both nations.

Since taking office, Trump has repeatedly accused Mexico of allowing illegal drugs, including fentanyl, and undocumented immigrants to enter the U.S. through its borders. 

Additionally, Trump has claimed that weapons smuggling occurs through the same routes. 

To address these issues, Trump imposed additional tariffs and declared a state of emergency at the border.

Following these actions, Mexico responded by deploying troops to the border region. 

National Guard officer José Luis Santos Iza stated, "From now on, there will be permanent surveillance at the border. 

The main objective of this operation is to stop illegal immigration and drug smuggling, particularly fentanyl."

The Mexican government revealed that 1,650 soldiers have been deployed in Ciudad Juárez, making it the second-largest deployment after Tijuana, where 1,949 troops are planned to be stationed.

Mexico’s swift action has drawn praise from U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who commended the country for stepping up its efforts in response to border security challenges.

As the border becomes a focal point of both national and international concern, this troop deployment marks a significant step in Mexico’s efforts to manage the situation, while also responding to external pressures from its northern neighbor.