The Trump administration is stepping up its fight against Mexican drug cartels, launching a military initiative aimed at these criminal organizations. Investigative journalist Ken Klippenstein reports that detailed plans for lethal operations are currently being crafted, with U.S. Northern Command (NORTHCOM) expected to finalize strike options by mid-September 2025.
This aggressive strategy focuses on major transnational criminal groups, notably the Sinaloa and Jalisco New Generation cartels. By classifying these cartels as foreign terrorist organizations early in his term, President Trump has opened the door for a more robust military response. The State Department also formally designated these groups as Foreign Terrorist Organizations in February 2025, reinforcing the view that cartels represent a serious national security threat rather than just drug trafficking entities.
U.S.-Mexico military cooperation remains strong, characterized by ongoing joint training and intelligence sharing. However, unilateral U.S. military action raises complex sovereignty issues for both nations. Recent high-level discussions, including a meeting at NORTHCOM, have emphasized the need for coordinated responses to the mutual threat posed by these cartels.
General Gregory M. Guillot, Commander of NORTHCOM, underscored this concern during testimony in February 2025, stating, “Cartels pose a direct threat to U.S. sovereignty.” His insights reflect an urgent call for increased intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance capabilities to tackle the burgeoning influence of these criminal organizations. The CIA’s expanded drone operations over Mexico aim to identify fentanyl production sites, enhancing the administration’s anti-cartel efforts.
The severity of the fentanyl crisis is evident, with provisional data indicating over 82,000 drug overdose deaths in the year ending January 2025. This alarming statistic highlights the escalating health crisis fueled by cartel activities. Guillot acknowledged the ongoing struggle to reduce fentanyl-related deaths, despite improved intelligence efforts. He has requested additional resources for direct actions in support of elite Mexican units combating these cartels.
Despite limited permissions from Mexico for U.S. forces to train local units, full approval for military strikes remains uncertain, hindered by political sensitivities. The administration views cartel activity as an invasion threat, prompting preparations reminiscent of post-9/11 counterterrorism tactics. As military planning unfolds, coordination with domestic agencies like the FBI and the Department of Homeland Security will be crucial. Potential military action may include direct strikes akin to operations seen in other global theaters, marking a significant shift in the U.S. approach to address the urgent challenge of drug cartels.
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