President-elect Donald Trump has set his sights on stringent immigration reforms, declaring an intention to exercise all powers available, possibly even military force, to execute an aggressive deportation strategy.

Trump's recent announcement calls for the expulsion of migrants to their countries of origin and threatens economic retaliation against nations that resist these efforts, as the New York Post reports.

Speaking to TIME magazine after being recognized as its "Person of the Year" for 2024, Trump reiterated that border security would remain at the forefront of his administrative priorities.

In an impassioned discussion, he outlined plans to ensure that those who enter the United States do so with adherence to legal protocols and thorough vetting processes.

Asserting his unwillingness to "do business" with countries that refuse to cooperate in taking back migrants, Trump stated, “I’ll get them into every country, or we won’t do business with those countries.”

Proposed Economic Tariffs on Trade

As part of his immigration strategy, Trump insists on imposing high tariffs on imports from neighboring countries Canada and Mexico. This measure aims to address the persistent issues of migrant flow and drug trafficking, problems he suggests worsened during President Biden’s term.

His proposal envisions tariffs as hefty as 25 percent on these nations' imports, creating substantial trade barriers to compel cooperation. Trump explained that these tariffs would complicate business dealings for these nations in the U.S., signaling a new chapter in immigration enforcement linked directly to financial implications.

The newly appointed "border czar," Tom Homan, is tasked with navigating Trump’s ambitious plans. Together, they are preparing for what has been dubbed the largest deportation operation in U.S. history. This operation represents an overarching plan to address illegal immigration firmly and decisively.

Controversial Use of Military Force

In a firmly delivered statement, Trump mentioned the possibility of using military force should the situation demand it to facilitate deportation efforts. This indication of military involvement adds a layer of complexity to the already contentious issue of immigration reform.

Trump's commitment to ensuring rapid deportation rather than prolonged stays in camps is evident, although he conceded camps could be needed if deportations do not occur as swiftly as desired.

Highlighting the importance of family unity during deportation, Trump noted his administration's dedication to maintaining family structures by deporting entire family units together.

This is a direct response to past criticisms regarding the separation of family members at the U.S. border.

Firm Stand Against Criminal Migrants

Integral to Trump's immigration narrative is a staunch opposition to accepting individuals involved in criminal activities or those released from mental institutions from other countries.

By emphasizing this point, Trump underlined a need for a robust vetting system that would prevent prisoners and potentially harmful individuals from entering the United States. “We don’t want people to come in from jails,” he asserted, clarifying that the U.S. would not offer refuge to criminals or those who pose a societal risk.

Throughout his various discussions on migration policy, Trump stressed that while legal immigration will continue, it must be managed within strict legal boundaries. This reinforces his plan to tighten controls and ensure that only law-abiding individuals with vetting clearance enter the nation.

Implications for Future Trade Relations

As Trump sets the stage for his presidency, these immigration plans could have widespread impacts beyond immediate deportation efforts. Economic relations with countries hesitant to take back deportees are likely to be strained by his proposed tariffs, influencing international trade substantially.

For Canada, Mexico, and other nations whose citizens reside in the U.S. without proper authorization, this development presents a new diplomatic challenge.

Despite the contentious nature of these plans, Trump remains steadfast in his mission to redefine how immigration and border security are addressed in the U.S. context. His approach is clear: strict enforcement paired with palpable economic repercussions for non-compliant nations stand at the forefront of his immigration policy. As the inauguration approaches, how these bold declarations will translate into actionable policies remains a critical question.