The Pentagon said it has identified about 7,000 U.S. troops that could be deployed to the U.S.-Mexico border, according to Reuters.
An unnamed U.S. official, who spoke to Reuters, said that the number could change.
“The total number of troops deployed will change each day as military forces flow into the operating area, but initial estimates indicate the Department of Defense has identified approximately 7,000 troops to support if required, Operation Faithful Patriot,” the official, who was not named, told Reuters.
About 2,000 of the 7,000 troops would be on standby if they’re required, the official told the news outlet.
He wrote: “We will NOT let these Caravans, which are also made up of some very bad thugs and gang members, into the U.S. Our border is sacred, must come in legally. TURN AROUND!”
Trump also said that the caravan has “very tough fighters” and they “fought back hard and viciously against Mexico at” the Guatemala-Mexico border before they broke through.
“Mexican soldiers hurt, were unable, or unwilling to stop caravan. Should stop them before they reach our border, but won’t!” he added.
Children Being Smuggled
It comes as seven children who were being smuggled by people in the caravan were rescued by Guatemalan authorities, said Judicial Watch.“The children have been taken into custody and they are being provided with food, water and medical attention, according to a high-level Guatemalan government official. The smugglers have been arrested and the broader investigation into criminal activity in the caravan is ongoing,” the organization wrote.
“The journey is long, uncertain, and full of danger, including the risk of exploitation, violence, and abuse,” UNICEF said.