The United States and Mexico have agreed to send patrols on both sides of their common border, share more information, and establish immediate communication methods, according to the U.S. Department of Defense. The agreement arises from a meeting between the head of U.S. Northern Command, General Gregory Guillot, and the Secretary of Defense of Mexico, Ricardo Trevilla, regarding cooperation on security, explained U.S. Defense Chief of Staff Joseph Kasper.
In the words of the official statement, "Generals Trevilla and Guillot agreed to conduct coordinated patrols on their respective sides of the border, increase shared information, and establish immediate communication methods. The agreement emphasizes that each country will respect the sovereignty of the other." The meeting concluded with the signing of a "joint understanding agreement" aimed at strengthening border security and promoting future discussions and detailed coordination at various levels.
On the other hand, U.S. immigration authorities have announced a marked reduction of 85% in crossings at the southern border with Mexico during the first 11 days of Donald Trump's administration, compared to the same period the previous year. This decrease is attributed to Trump's new executive measures and the asylum restrictions imposed since June 2024.
Additionally, a change in migrant behavior has been observed, as they have altered their plans to enter the U.S., opting to stay in Mexico due to stricter border restrictions. Furthermore, security measures have caused delays of up to 5 hours at international bridges, affecting trade, tourism, and daily crossers into the United States.
In light of this situation, the National Chamber of Commerce (Canaco) of Reynosa has requested the National Guard and the presidency of Mexico to conduct checks at the bridges in an agile and random manner to avoid harming commercial and tourist exchanges. The presence of security forces has led to long lines in recent weeks, causing discomfort among visitors and traders who use the crossings to reach the U.S.
