The Trump administration is currently evaluating plans that could see the use of military force against Mexican drug cartels. This potential escalation represents a significant shift in the U.S. approach to combating drug-related crime in Latin America. According to both current and former U.S. officials, discussions have explored various military options, including the deployment of Navy destroyers to launch missiles targeting cartel leaders and infrastructure. Alternatively, there are considerations for closer collaboration with Mexican authorities to dismantle these criminal organizations.
A U.S. official, who spoke on the condition of anonymity due to the sensitive nature of the discussions, described the idea of military strikes as “audacious” and suggested that such actions would likely face significant hurdles in gaining presidential approval. Another official indicated that the administration is not contemplating the deployment of U.S. troops on Mexican soil, preferring aerial drone strikes or naval operations if military action is sanctioned.
These discussions regarding military options have been ongoing since early in the administration, involving a working group that includes officials from the Defense Department, the Department of Homeland Security, and other relevant agencies. Recently, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth was briefed on these military strategies, although no immediate action appears to be forthcoming.
The deliberations follow the administration’s designation of eight cartels as foreign terrorist organizations earlier this year. On his first day in office, President Donald Trump issued an executive order declaring a national emergency, asserting that these cartels pose “an unusual and extraordinary threat to the national security, foreign policy, and economy of the United States.” According to a report by The New York Times, Trump has signed a directive that could lead to military action against these cartels, although the Pentagon has referred queries to the White House, which remains tight-lipped about any new authorizations.
White House spokesperson Anna Kelly emphasized that President Trump’s primary concern is protecting the homeland. She noted that the designation of cartels as terrorist organizations is a crucial step in tackling drug trafficking. The U.S. has already intensified surveillance efforts along the U.S.-Mexico border, deploying thousands of troops, and increasing naval patrols in coastal waters near Mexico.
In response, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum has firmly opposed any unilateral U.S. military action, stating, “This has nothing to do with Mexican territory.” She emphasized that cooperation and collaboration would continue, but there would be “absolutely no invasion.” She also mentioned that she had previously declined Trump’s offers for U.S. troops to assist in combating drug cartels.
U.S. Ambassador to Mexico, Ronald Johnson, reiterated the importance of cooperation, stating that the effort is about building a “joint, unshakable front” with Mexico. The objective is to dismantle cartel networks, ensuring that the only individuals who need to fear are those profiting from violence and chaos.
Former U.S. intelligence officials have suggested that Trump’s consideration of military action may serve as a strategic message aimed at maintaining pressure on the fentanyl crisis. Trump has made fighting drug cartels a central element of his national security policy, arguing that treating these organizations as terrorist groups enables the U.S. to leverage its intelligence and military capabilities more effectively.
For months, the Trump administration has been assessing how to utilize the U.S. military against cartel activities. This includes the establishment of the Joint Service Interagency Advisory Group, which comprises U.S. Special Operations troops and liaisons from various agencies, including the FBI. The group, led by Eric Geressy, a retired soldier with extensive experience in the region, has focused specifically on countering Mexican drug cartels.
Discussions regarding military options have involved senior officials from both Northern Command and Southern Command, indicating a high level of coordination within the U.S. military hierarchy.
Some former officials with experience in Latin America caution that an overly aggressive approach could backfire, potentially straining relations with Mexico, the U.S.’s top trading partner. They argue that the current landscape of organized crime is complex, with more than 500 cartels, gangs, and mafia-style groups operating across Mexico, many of which are intertwined with local economies and governance structures.
Trump has criticized Mexico for its inability to control the flow of fentanyl into the U.S., prompting his administration to implement tariffs and other measures. In response, the Mexican government has increased its military presence along the northern border and heightened cooperation with U.S. anti-drug agencies.
As deliberations continue, the effectiveness of military action against drug cartels remains uncertain. Recent data indicates a decline in fentanyl seizures in the U.S., which some attribute to various factors, including internal cartel conflicts and changes in drug trafficking patterns. The Trump administration’s focus on narcotics has led to increased resources for counternarcotics operations within various U.S. intelligence agencies.
As discussions progress, it is crucial that any actions taken consider the long-term implications for U.S.-Mexico relations and the broader impact on regional stability.
