The Department of Homeland Security is increasing its presence around the world, with an estimated 2,000 employees, including Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents to Transportation Security Administration officials, are deployed in more than 70 countries, according to The New York Times.
"Many threats to the homeland begin overseas, and that's where we need to be," said James Nealon, assistant secretary for international engagement.
Some in European countries have criticized the increase, while other allies say that a longer United States reach is helpful in ramping up security, the Times reported.
A member of Germany's Left Party said U.S. customs officers are extending a travel ban to the U.S. by interviewing travelers in Germany before they are allowed to board planes to the United States.
Costs of the operations also are an issue, with costs of stationing an Immigration and Customs Enforcement agent overseas is around four times more costly than a domestic posting, according to the Times.
The work of the officers has made an impact against extremists, drug smugglers, wildlife traffickers, and Nigerian scammers in Kenya and South Africa.
Homeland is pushing to bring in more ICE special agents and analysts for offices in Honduras, Guatemala, and El Salvador to combat drug trafficking, the Times noted.
"You have to be on the ground and have the relationships with local law enforcement… you can't just parachute in," said Steve R. Martin, the special agent in charge in Pretoria, about the agency's role in arresting a drug smuggling kingpin.