"This was a specific request from former President Donald Trump, who understands that in the hot weather here, painting the wall black will increase the surface temperature and make it more difficult to climb," Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Kristi Noem said during a visit to a section of the border wall in New Mexico on 19/8/2025.
"So, we're going to paint the entire southern border wall black to deter individuals attempting to enter the US illegally," Noem added, while participating in the painting effort.
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DHS Secretary Kristi Noem helps paint the border wall black during a press conference on 19/8/2025. Photo: Reuters |
DHS Secretary Kristi Noem helps paint the border wall black during a press conference on 19/8/2025. Photo: Reuters
The US-Mexico border wall is primarily composed of closely spaced steel columns, 5 to 9 meters high. Some sections incorporate metal plates, steel mesh, or concrete, but the main structure remains a steel fence, allowing border patrol agents clear visibility.
"Different sections of the border wall will look quite different, depending on the terrain and location," Noem explained. US Border Patrol Chief Mike Banks, who attended the event with Noem, added that the paint would also help prevent rust.
Last month, Trump signed what he called a "beautiful act," allocating $165 billion to the DHS, primarily for enhancing southern border security and deporting undocumented immigrants.
Of this, $46.5 billion was designated for constructing and completing the border wall, a project initiated during Trump's first term. Noem stated that the wall will also be equipped with additional technology, cameras, and sensors.
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A section of the US-Mexico border wall painted black on 19/8/2025. Photo: Reuters |
A section of the US-Mexico border wall painted black on 19/8/2025. Photo: Reuters
The Trump administration is pushing to finish the wall despite a significant decrease in the number of illegal border crossings.
In June, the US apprehended over 6,000 migrants along the southern border, the lowest figure in decades, compared to a peak of 6,000 per day under President Joe Biden.
Duc Trung (According to CBS News, The Hill, NY Post)
