US Army shifts hundreds of troops to quieter Rio Grande Valley

The Army is shifting hundreds of soldiers to Texas’ Rio Grande Valley, saying signs of increased drug-cartel activity warrant a larger presence; officials also cite closer cooperation with Mexico’s military and a recent exchange of gunfire near the river. The deployment comes as parts of the border that once saw frequent crossings appear quiet, amid a broader decline in illegal crossings. Some experts question whether the expanded military presence is an effective security measure or political theater, noting that asylum restrictions introduced before President Donald Trump returned to office contributed to the drop in crossings. The border remains a political strength for Trump even as other issues weigh on Republicans ahead of midterm elections.