As the US-Mexico border policy undergoes potential changes, migrants in Mexico are left uncertain about their future. With redundant pathways to asylum no longer available and Trump’s border security measures in place, many have been waiting for months or even years to cross into the US.
Migrants in Mexico Await Next Phase of Trump’s Border Plan
Redundant Pathways to Asylum No Longer Available
Migrants stuck on the Mexican side of the border with the United States face a daunting task. Many have been waiting for months, even years, to cross into the US, but their goal seems unattainable. One woman, who wished to remain anonymous out of fear for her safety, shared her story with DW in Ciudad Juarez.
She left her home in southern Mexico due to threats from criminals trying to kidnap her and her daughter. “We have no alternative,” she explained. “The gangs are powerful; they’re everywhere.” The Rio Grande River separates the two countries, but it’s more than just a geographical barrier – it’s a symbol of hope for those seeking asylum.
Trump’s Border Security Measures
US President Donald Trump has made border security one of his top priorities since taking office. He declared a state of emergency at the southern border and began deploying the military to construct border barriers. The Pentagon announced the deployment of 1,500 soldiers from the army and navy, who will join forces with an ongoing border protection operation run by the National Guard in Texas.
The deployment is part of Trump’s executive order, which instructs the secretary of defense to send members of the armed forces and provide logistical services to the Department of Homeland Security. While the order emphasizes that these are to be supplied “in support of civilian-controlled law enforcement operations,” it’s unclear how this will play out in practice.
The Insurrection Act: A 200-Year-Old Law
The Posse Comitatus Act of 1878 prohibits the regular army from being deployed within the US, but there is an exception – the Insurrection Act of 1807. Trump has requested a report from the secretaries of defense and interior within 90 days on whether this act should be invoked to deal with the situation at the border.
Invoking the Insurrection Act would allow for large-scale deportations of people without valid residence permits, but any such step by the Trump administration would likely end up in court. More than 20 states have already filed lawsuits against Trump’s executive order declaring that babies born in the US will only be eligible for citizenship if their parents meet specific residency requirements.
Aimee Santillan’s Perspective
Aimee Santillan, who works with a Catholic organization called Hope, believes that despite Trump’s determination, he won’t be able to achieve his ultimate goal. “What he wants is for people to stop coming, and for immigration to basically stop,” she said. “And that’s not going to happen.”
The situation at the border remains uncertain, with many migrants facing uncertainty about their future. As Trump’s plans unfold, one thing is clear – the consequences of his actions will be far-reaching and complex.
