In a move to bolster border security, the United States and Mexico have launched collaborative patrols along their shared boundary. This initiative follows a meeting between General Gregory M. Guillot of U.S. Northern Command and Mexican General Ricardo Trevilla Trejo, culminating in a Joint Statement of Understanding. The agreement emphasizes mutual respect for sovereignty while enhancing communication and information exchange to ensure border security.

This cooperative effort arrives amid the Trump administration's intensified border security policies, implemented following President Trump's inauguration in January. These policies have reportedly led to a significant reduction in illegal crossings, with a senior official reporting a 93% decrease in daily gotaways compared to figures under the previous administration.

Mexican National Guard members patrol the Mexico-US border in Ciudad Juarez on February 5, 2025. (AP Photo/Christian Chavez)

A Mexican National Guard member patrols the Mexico-US border in Ciudad Juarez on February 5, 2025. (AP Photo/Christian Chavez)

The increased border security measures have also resulted in confrontations with Mexican cartels. A Department of Homeland Security helicopter was targeted with a laser from the Mexican side of the border this month. Furthermore, suspected cartel members reportedly fired upon Border Patrol agents shortly after President Trump assumed office.

U.S. President Donald Trump speaks to reporters upon arrival in West Palm Beach, Florida, on February 16, 2025.  (REUTERS/Kevin Lamarque)