Thu Jan 23 13:00:00 UTC 2025: ## Thousands of US Troops Deployed to Southern Border Amidst Migrant Influx

**Washington, D.C.** – In a significant escalation of the response to the ongoing migrant situation at the US-Mexico border, the Trump administration has deployed 1,500 active-duty troops, with more expected to follow. This deployment comes just two days after President Trump ordered increased military presence at the border.

The initial wave of troops, including 500 Marines from Camp Pendleton and approximately 1,000 Army personnel, will primarily focus on logistical and support roles, assisting US Customs and Border Protection (CBP). Their tasks will include data entry, vehicle maintenance, and enhancing detection and monitoring capabilities. Four military aircraft (two C-17s and two C-130s) have also been deployed to support migrant repatriation flights.

Acting Secretary of Defense Robert Salesses confirmed the deployment, stating that the additional personnel and aircraft are crucial for increased detection and monitoring efforts. He also confirmed the use of military airlift to support the deportation of over 5,000 migrants. The White House Press Secretary, Karoline Leavitt, corroborated the deployment numbers.

While the Pentagon initially prepared for the deployment of up to 10,000 troops, officials clarified that the initial 1,500 were selected to minimize impact on other military operations. Further deployments are anticipated in the coming weeks and months. The Marines are reportedly prepared for all contingencies, acting as both a rapid response force and a long-term solution.

Despite the increased military presence, active-duty troops remain prohibited from direct law enforcement activities due to the Posse Comitatus Act. Their roles will be strictly limited to support functions.

The deployment aims to alleviate the strain on federal resources along the border, allowing Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to refocus on interior enforcement. While recent daily illegal crossings have decreased to between 1,100 and 1,300, the administration views this as a necessary step to manage the ongoing situation. President Trump’s executive order also leaves open the possibility of invoking the Insurrection Act within 90 days, which would grant broader authority for military involvement in domestic law enforcement.

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