President Donald Trump, immediately following his inauguration, declared a national emergency at the United States’ southern border. This executive action aims to address what the administration describes as a crisis of illegal immigration and border security.
In his inaugural address, President Trump emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating, “We will halt all illegal entries into our country and begin the process of returning millions of criminal aliens to their home countries.” He announced the reinstatement of the “Remain in Mexico” policy, officially known as the Migrant Protection Protocols, which requires asylum seekers to wait in Mexico while their U.S. immigration cases are processed.
The declaration includes the deployment of U.S. military personnel to the border to enhance security measures. An incoming administration official stated, “The Executive Order directs the military to prioritize our borders and territorial integrity.”
Additionally, the administration plans to terminate certain immigration policies from the previous administration, including the CBP One app, which facilitated legal entry for nearly one million migrants. All existing appointments through the app have been canceled as part of the new measures.
These actions have prompted responses from neighboring countries. Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum asserted that Mexico will not “bow its head” and demands equal treatment in bilateral relations. She emphasized the importance of dialogue and mutual respect between the nations.
The national emergency declaration is expected to face legal challenges and political debate, as similar actions during President Trump’s previous term were met with opposition and judicial scrutiny. The administration maintains that these steps are necessary to safeguard national security and uphold the rule of law.
