Critics have accused President Donald Trump of using the threat of illegal immigration to fire up his supporters ahead of Tuesday’s mid-term elections.

The migrants said that they are fleeing persecution, poverty and violence in their home countries of Honduras, Guatemala, and El Salvador.

Many of those arriving in the Jesus Martinez Palillo Stadium on Sunday had walked from the state of Veracruz.

Authorities in Mexico City said that they have prepared food and shelter as well as medical services and legal advisers for the thousands who are expected to arrive in the coming weeks.

Tanks capable of holding 10,000 litres (of drinking water have been installed in the stadium, La Jornada reported.

Residents of Mexico City have also donated clothes and shoes to the travellers.

President Trump said that he would use the military to completely close the US-Mexico border to stop the migrants crossing.

He also threatened to cut aid to Guatemala, El Salvador, and Honduras.