US Southern Command Chief: ‘Crime-Terror Convergence’ on Southern Border Is ‘Existential’ Threat to Nation

NEWSMAX — The United States’ neglect of its southern border has created a threat that challenges the country’s national security, says the general in charge of overseeing the region, and he is concerned that terrorists and others can exploit the vulnerabilities that have been created. “In comparison to other global threats, the near collapse of societies in the hemisphere with the associated drug and [undocumented immigrant] flow are frequently viewed to be of low importance,” Marine Corps Gen. John Kelly, commander of U.S. Southern Command, told Defense One. “Many argue these threats are not existential and do not challenge our national security. I disagree.” Kelly has asked Congress to allocate more money and equipment to help him and his command fight the steady flow of drugs, weapons, and migrants from Central America, but the budget has already been cut when it comes to border security. [Read More]