U.S. Military's Active Role in Border Security at California-Arizona-New Mexico Border

U.S. Military's Active Role in Border Security at California-Arizona-New Mexico Border

Washington, April 13:
U.S. President Donald Trump has issued a new memorandum directing the military to become more actively involved in securing the southern border. According to the directive, a narrow strip of federal land along the borders of California, New Mexico, and Arizona — referred to as the "Roosevelt Reservation" — will now be designated as a "military zone" under the U.S. Department of Defense.

Declaring a “National Defense Area”

As a result of Trump’s action, the Roosevelt Reservation will be designated as a “National Defense Area,” where various military activities will be conducted, including border patrol, surveillance equipment installation, and wall construction.

Trump stated, “Our southern border faces a multi-dimensional threat. Given the complexity of this situation, our military must take a more direct role than ever before.”

Instructions to Relevant Departments

The directive orders the Department of Defense, Department of Homeland Security, Department of Agriculture, and other relevant agencies to allocate necessary federal land in the area for military operations. However, Native American lands (Federal Indian Reservations) will be excluded from this decision.

The Department of Defense will now determine which military actions will be considered "reasonable and necessary" for border security.

Background on the Roosevelt Reservation

The Roosevelt Reservation was initially created in 1907 during the presidency of Theodore Roosevelt. Its purpose was to ensure federal presence in the border area and prevent illegal entry.

Part of Election Promises?

Analysts suggest that through this decision, Trump is fulfilling his election promise on border security and “mass deportation” as part of his 2024 campaign. By increasing surveillance and deploying military personnel at the southern border, his administration aims to further strengthen its anti-immigration stance.