Washington, D.C., Jan 23, (V7N) – The U.S. military is set to deploy active duty forces to the country’s southern border, according to a defense official who was not authorized to speak before an official announcement. The formal announcement of the deployment is expected later on Wednesday.

This decision follows several border security executive actions signed by President Donald Trump since his inauguration. Around 1,500 active duty troops are expected to be deployed, with approximately 2,500 members of the National Guard and Army Reserve already at the border assisting U.S. Customs and Border Protection with logistics and support duties, a Pentagon spokesperson confirmed.

This move follows a precedent set by former President Joe Biden’s administration, as well as during Trump’s first term. Unless the Insurrection Act is invoked, active duty troops will only be allowed to support roles and will not assist in apprehensions, as has been the case previously.

END/WD/SMA/