WASHINGTON, D.C. — In his first days as the 47th President of the United States, Donald Trump has signed a series of sweeping executive orders aimed at intensifying immigration enforcement, marking a dramatic shift in U.S. border policy. The orders, which echo his first term’s hardline approach, have drawn both praise and criticism from various quarters.
One of the most significant actions taken by the Trump administration is the declaration of a national emergency at the U.S.-Mexico border. The move facilitates the deployment of military troops to bolster border security and redirects military funds to accelerate the construction of additional border barriers.
In another decisive action, the administration abruptly canceled all appointments scheduled through the CBP One app, which had been used by migrants to secure meetings with U.S. immigration officials. The sudden termination of these appointments left many migrants stranded and in distress at the border.
Among other policies, the Trump administration has announced plans to reinstate the controversial “Remain in Mexico” program, which requires asylum seekers to wait in Mexico while their claims are processed. Additionally, the practice of “catch and release” — where detained migrants are released into the U.S. while awaiting immigration proceedings — is set to be terminated.
President Trump has also signed an executive order attempting to end birthright citizenship for children of undocumented immigrants, a move that is expected to face significant legal challenges.
Furthermore, the administration is preparing for mass deportations, particularly targeting immigrants with criminal records. Military personnel may be utilized for these operations, while expedited removal processes will bypass traditional hearings.
In an effort to combat organized crime, the Trump administration has designated certain drug cartels as “foreign terrorist organizations,” enabling more stringent measures against these groups.
The sweeping changes have reignited debates over immigration policy in the U.S. Critics argue that the measures are inhumane and could harm economic and social stability, while supporters hail the actions as necessary for national security and the rule of law.
The Merit Newspaper gathered these reports from its international correspondents, ensuring a comprehensive view of the unfolding immigration developments under President Trump’s administration.
As the nation adjusts to this new wave of policies, legal challenges and widespread reactions are expected to dominate the discourse in the weeks ahead.
