Mexican officials are voicing concerns over President-elect Donald Trump’s potential plans to take military action against drug cartels. Trump has long argued that cartels, which funnel dangerous fentanyl into the U.S., pose a significant threat to American lives.
https://t.co/Mv86wlKIUQ
President-elect Trump plans to designate Mexican drug cartels as foreign terrorist organizations, a move he previously shelved at the request of Mexico's then-president. His strategy includes military intervention and using special forces to combat cartel…— The America One News (@am1_news) December 25, 2024
Mexico’s President Claudia Sheinbaum sought to downplay the possibility of a military strike, asserting, “There won’t be an invasion.” However, Trump’s national security picks suggest his administration could revisit the issue.
The headline should have read, "Mexico officials are worried that Trump using the military against cartels will impact their side hustle." The cartel are able to do what they do because they are allowed by Mexican officials for a price.
— Marilyn Fire (@Marilyn2Mills) December 29, 2024
Rep. Mike Waltz (R-FL), chosen to be national security adviser, introduced legislation last year calling for military force against cartels. Trump’s choice for ambassador to Mexico, Ronald D. Johnson, a former Green Beret, has drawn criticism from Mexican officials who see the appointment as indicative of Trump’s priorities.
Mexico says “any US soldiers or agents involved in the killing or capture of a drug cartel boss could face murder or kidnapping charges in Mexico”.
Should the US avoid taking military action in Mexico against drug cartels because of this? @WarrenDavidson @jackwindsor
— Stand & Speak (@LadDilgard) December 29, 2024
During his campaign, Trump described cartels as akin to terrorist organizations and promised to use U.S. special forces to dismantle their operations. He also proposed a naval blockade to prevent drugs from entering the country and pledged to impose tariffs on imports from Mexico and Canada if drug trafficking persisted.
I would rather make Mexico part of America and absorb the people already here. Label the cartel a terrorist organization and use the military and NATO to push out the cartel. Make Mexico as prosperous and safe as America while lowering both our crime. I love Mexico.
— Joseph (@JosephandPaxton) December 29, 2024
Jorge Castaneda, a former foreign minister of Mexico, voiced alarm at Johnson’s appointment, stating that the ambassador’s background signaled a clear intent to focus on cartel-related issues.
Trump has also promised to raise public awareness about fentanyl dangers through a national campaign set to launch in 2025.
