Trump Declares End to Migrant ‘Invasion’ After Record-Low Border Crossings

Former President Donald Trump took to social media to announce what he called a major victory in securing the U.S. southern border. “The invasion of our country is OVER,” he declared, citing newly released U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) data showing just 8,326 illegal border crossings in February—his first full month back in office. The number represents a historic low and a drastic turnaround from previous years.

A Sharp Decline in Border Crossings

The February figures mark a 96% drop from the record-high border encounters recorded in December 2023 under the Biden administration, when CBP apprehended 301,981 migrants attempting to cross illegally. Trump attributed the sharp decline to his administration’s aggressive border policies, including a series of executive orders issued on his first day back in office. One of the most significant moves was his emergency declaration at the U.S.-Mexico border, which granted federal agencies expanded authority to enforce immigration laws.

In his statement, Trump emphasized that every individual apprehended at the border was either “quickly ejected from our Nation” or, in cases where necessary, “prosecuted for crimes against the United States of America.” He credited his administration’s strict enforcement measures with deterring illegal migration, claiming that his policies had effectively shut down what he described as an ongoing crisis.

Policy Changes Driving the Shift

Several key policy changes have contributed to the decline in illegal crossings. The administration has reinstated strict asylum restrictions, requiring migrants to remain in Mexico while their claims are processed. Additionally, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has significantly ramped up interior enforcement, leading to a rise in deportations. According to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), interior arrests have increased by 137% since Trump’s return to office, with ICE carrying out over 11,000 removals in just the first few weeks of his term.

Another major factor is the administration’s crackdown on sanctuary cities, which had previously provided protections for undocumented immigrants. Federal funding cuts and increased cooperation between local law enforcement and ICE have led to an increase in deportations of individuals with criminal records.

Political and Public Reactions

Trump’s announcement has been met with mixed reactions. Supporters have hailed the dramatic reduction in border crossings as proof that strong enforcement policies work. Conservative lawmakers and border security advocates argue that the Biden administration’s policies encouraged illegal migration, and they see Trump’s actions as a necessary course correction.

However, critics argue that the administration’s approach prioritizes enforcement over humanitarian concerns. Immigration advocacy groups have raised alarms about the impact on asylum seekers, arguing that stricter policies could put vulnerable individuals at risk. Some Democratic lawmakers have also expressed concerns that Trump’s policies could strain U.S. relations with neighboring countries.

Looking Ahead

As Trump’s administration continues to implement its immigration agenda, the February border numbers will likely serve as a key talking point in future policy debates. Whether the downward trend continues remains to be seen, but for now, Trump is making it clear—under his leadership, the southern border is no longer open.