Trump Greenlights Military Seizure of Federal Lands at the Border

President Donald Trump has authorized increased military operations along the U.S.-Mexico border, as detailed in a new White House memorandum. The directive requires the involvement of several federal departments, including Defense, Interior, Agriculture, and Homeland Security, to facilitate border security efforts.

The Roosevelt Reservation, a federally controlled area along the border in California, Arizona, and New Mexico, will serve as a key location for these military activities. However, the plan excludes tribal lands, as stated in the memo.

Environmental advocates have voiced significant concerns regarding the impact of this militarization. Russ McSpadden from the Center for Biological Diversity criticized the move, stating, “Militarizing wild lands under the guise of national security will sacrifice ecosystems and wildlife to a manufactured emergency.” He emphasized the potential damage to valuable natural areas, viewing the directive as part of a broader trend of reckless environmental policies.

This initiative stems from Executive Order 14167, issued on January 20, which tasked the Armed Forces with repelling what Trump termed as an “invasion” and securing the border against unlawful entry. The latest memorandum aims to provide a framework for how federal agencies will coordinate military efforts to uphold national security.

In the directive, Trump noted, “Our southern border is under attack from a variety of threats.” He highlighted the need for a more proactive military role in border security compared to previous strategies.

Initial military operations will commence in a limited area of the border, with the Secretary of Defense expected to review this phase within 45 days. There may be opportunities for expansion to other sectors as needed.

While the military can assist law enforcement on request, the memorandum does not confer new authority to federal agencies or state governors over one another.

This announcement coincided with Proclamation 10886, which declared a national emergency at the southern border. Critics have cautioned against the risks of military involvement in civilian law enforcement, arguing it could undermine the separation of roles. In contrast, proponents contend that military measures are essential to improve border security.

The White House asserted that all actions carried out under this memorandum will comply with applicable laws and remain contingent upon available funding.