US troops are set to remain at the country’s border with Mexico until late next year — though 1,500 fewer service members will be in place, according to a report.
Defense Secretary Mark Esper has signed off on a request from the Department of Homeland Security to continue military support at the southern border — with up to 4,000 troops approved through September 2021, according to a Defense Department statement obtained by The Hill.
That number is 1,500 less than the currently approved troop level of about 5,500 — and the reduction will take place in October, according to the report.
The majority of the service members in place will be from the National Guard, in a support role to US Customs and Border Protection, the outlet reported.
“DoD and DHS constantly review the situation along the border, adjusting requirements as necessary to maintain the safety and security of the American people,” Pentagon spokesman Lt. Col. Chris Mitchell said in the statement obtained by The Hill.
Securing the US border with Mexico has been a focal point for Trump since his 2016 campaign days. This week, during his visit to Arizona, he touted the completion of more than 200 miles of what he called an impenetrable “border wall system” to keep out illegal immigrants.
“We’re on pace to complete 450 miles by end of year, 500 miles almost immediately after,” he told border patrol, law enforcement and elected officials, including Gov. Doug Ducey, during the event in Yuma.