Illegal border crossings have dramatically decreased, with U.S. Border Patrol apprehending just 8,300 migrants during February 2025—the lowest figure since the year 2000. This decline is being celebrated by President Donald Trump, who claims his administration’s policies are responsible for what he describes as the lowest number of illegal immigrants attempting to enter the country.
On Truth Social, Trump stated, "February had the lowest number of illegal immigrants trying to enter our country in history – by far!" This announcement aligns with Trump's broader immigration platform as he seeks to solidify his hardline stance on border security following his recent inauguration.
Alongside Trump, U.S. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem has been actively promoting the department’s efforts, highlighting recent successful operations aimed at targeting gang members. On March 4, 2025, Noem commented during such operations, saying, "This morning, we’re going after MS-13 gang members, 18th Street gang members, bad dudes. Getting them off the street thanks to all these officers putting their lives at risk to work in our task forces to make our streets safe." This initiative is part of the administration’s efforts to portray renewed control over immigration issues.
Statistics reveal illegal crossings fell 94% compared to the previous year, which has shifted the narrative on border security and the effectiveness of the Trump administration’s tactics. The notable decrease coincides with the closure of the “Firefly” migrant processing facility in Eagle Pass, Texas, which opened July 2022. This facility was intended to facilitate the quick processing of migrants but will close as border apprehensions diminish.
Vice President JD Vance is also visiting the southern border on March 5, expressing the administration’s commitment to tougher immigration policies. His visit will be closely watched, especially since he will be joined by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard, marking one of the highest-level government engagements at the border since Trump’s second term began.
The Pentagon announced an additional deployment of 3,000 active duty soldiers to reinforce border operations amid this reduction of crossing statistics. Critics question the necessity of this troop presence when crossings have plummeted so substantially. Yet, the administration appears committed to its narrative of maintaining strict border security.
The deployment is seen as part of Trump’s pledges to curb immigration and combat drug trafficking. He recently imposed 25% tariffs on imports from Mexico and Canada due to issues linked to illegal immigration and drug smuggling. This tough approach has led to Mexico taking significant steps to comply with U.S. demands, including arrests of over 10,000 high-profile cartel members and the surrender of several drug lords.
Despite the apparent success of reduced crossings, analysts and local activists voice skepticism about the administration’s motives behind deploying troops. Federico Estévez, a political science professor at the Autonomous Technological Institute of Mexico, noted candidly, "There’s absolutely nothing left to give Trump," implying Mexico's limited negotiating power under current circumstances.
This backdrop sets the stage for Vance's border visit, which aims to showcase the administration's accomplishments. Vance’s schedule includes discussions at Shelby Park, which serves as both a local attraction and the site of disputes over federal control between Governor Greg Abbott and the Biden administration.
Calls for reform continue to rise amid criticisms of Trump’s increasing deportation efforts. Since taking office, authorities estimate nearly 23,000 arrests and over 18,000 deportations have taken place, with Trump asserting, "They are now strongly embedded in our country. But we are getting them out and getting them out fast." The administration maintains its tougher stance, prioritizing criminals among the undocumented population.
While these developments ushered mixed sentiments from within and outside the U.S., there’s hope among supporters of more humane immigration policies and advocates who see structural issues requiring fundamental change. Infrastructure issues within ICE detention facilities and the treatment of migrants remain contentious topics as progress continues to feel paradoxical against Trump’s aggressive rhetoric.
To summarize, as February’s border crossing statistics celebrate significant declines, the Southern border remains alive with the presence of federal troops and showcases the administration’s resolve to portray success. Actions have sparked political dialogue surrounding immigration reform and the balancing of security and humane treatment of migrants, as the country navigates contentious issues around this end of the policy spectrum.