The White House has publicly denounced Texas Governor Greg Abbott's recent installation of razor wire and floating barriers along the Rio Grande. Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre labeled the governor's actions as "inhumane" and "atrocious" during a press briefing, characterizing them as a political maneuver rather than a genuine attempt to address border security concerns. Jean-Pierre's comments came in response to questions regarding Mexico's formal complaint to the United States about the barriers, which the Mexican government alleges violate international treaties.
Jean-Pierre stated she was unable to confirm whether the Biden administration had discussed the matter with Mexico three weeks prior, as claimed by the Mexican government. She emphasized the White House's disapproval of Abbott's approach, contrasting it with a collaborative approach to resolving border challenges.
Mexico's diplomatic note contends that the floating barriers, deployed by Texas in early July, potentially infringe upon existing treaties related to boundaries and water resources. Concerns about the potential dangers posed by the buoys, including drowning risks for migrants and environmental impact on the river, have been raised by advocacy groups.
Governor Abbott's office maintains that the barriers are a necessary measure to deter illegal crossings, making it more challenging for individuals to cross the Rio Grande and enter Texas. Abbott has previously stated that the barriers are part of a broader effort to address what he calls President Biden's "growing border crisis." He highlighted the Texas Legislature's allocation of $5.1 billion for border security.
