US Starts Prosecuting Migrants for Entering 'Military Zone' Near Border

The U.S. has launched its first criminal prosecutions against migrants and asylum seekers accused of entering the newly established "New Mexico National Defence Area" near the Mexico border. About 28 individuals face charges for violating security regulations, which could lead to fines or up to a year in prison. The area, expanded from Fort Huachuca, now spans over 109,000 acres and is treated as a military zone. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth called it a defense line against illegal crossings. Critics, including the ACLU, warn this militarization threatens civil liberties and risks prosecuting civilians, including U.S. citizens, in border communities.