President Donald Trump has issued a National Security Presidential Memorandum authorizing the US military to take control of federal lands along the US-Mexico border to enhance border security.
The directive, titled “Military Mission for Sealing the Southern Border of the United States and Repelling Invasions,” aims to combat illegal immigration and drug smuggling by allowing military activities on these lands.
Trump stated that the southern border is under attack from various threats, requiring the military to take a more direct role in securing the border.
The memorandum directs the Secretaries of Defense, Interior, Agriculture, and Homeland Security to facilitate the transfer of jurisdiction over federal lands, including the Roosevelt Reservation, to the Department of Defense.
The Roosevelt Reservation is a 60-foot-wide strip of land along the border spanning California, Arizona, and New Mexico, covering approximately 23,000 acres.
The military’s role will include constructing border barriers and deploying detection and monitoring equipment, with 7,000 troops deployed to control the area.
Certain areas will be designated as “National Defense Areas,” where military forces will have full operational authority.
Trump cited his constitutional powers to protect and secure the country’s integrity, deeming this approach efficient, effective, and consistent wih applicable law.