CIUDAD JUÁREZ, Mexico — A convoy of trucks from the Mexican National Guard and Army has begun patrolling along the border that separates Ciudad Juárez from El Paso, Texas, marking the deployment of the first wave of 10,000 troops. This strategic move follows recent threats of tariffs from President Trump, prompting Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum to enhance border security and combat rampant fentanyl smuggling.

The situation escalated after Trump delayed the imposition of severe tariffs on Mexico for at least a month, in exchange for Sheinbaum's commitment to bolster security at the U.S. border. Armed and masked members of the National Guard have already begun searching through brush along the border, removing makeshift ladders and ropes hidden in the trenches and loading them onto trucks for disposal. Reports indicate similar activities near Tijuana as part of this enhanced security operation.

Despite reports of declining levels of migration and fentanyl overdoses in recent months, Trump has declared an emergency at the border, stating that the U.S. will also step up efforts to prevent the trafficking of guns into Mexico, which contributes to cartel violence and instability. “There will be permanent surveillance on the border,” said José Luis Santos Iza, a leader of the National Guard overseeing the deployment, emphasizing that the primary focus is to curb drug trafficking, particularly fentanyl.

Government figures indicate that approximately 1,650 troops are expected in Ciudad Juárez, with Tijuana slated to receive around 1,949 personnel, making these cities significant beneficiaries of this military reinforcement. This deployment appears to be a calculated move by President Sheinbaum, who faces skepticism about her ability to manage relations with Trump compared to her predecessor, former President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador, according to political observers.

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, during a trip to Latin America where migration was a key topic, acknowledged the Mexican government's cooperation. For further details, visit VOA News.