Pentagon boosts border presence with additional 1,500 troops

The Pentagon is preparing to deploy an additional 1,500 soldiers to the U.S.-Mexico border. According to the Associated Press, this decision aims to support the more than 2,000 National Guard soldiers already present there.

The soldiers will perform support functions such as logistics, transport, and barrier construction.

The decision to send additional forces was made after Donald Trump signed orders regarding the border emergency. Trump described illegal immigration as an "invasion" and instructed the Pentagon to prepare plans for using the military to secure the border.

As one official told CNN, in the coming weeks and months, even more active-duty soldiers are expected to be sent to the border. In his view, the first wave of intervention serves as a foundation for increasing the military presence.

American soldiers have been present at the border since 2018 when they were deployed by Trump. Currently, in addition to National Guard soldiers, approximately 2,200 Northern Command soldiers are involved in activities such as monitoring the border and providing logistical assistance. Last year, additional forces were also sent by Texas Governor Greg Abbott.

It is unclear whether the soldiers will be armed. However, none of the active-duty soldiers are authorized to enforce laws or engage with migrants beyond assisting with their transportation to and around various centers located near the border.