The recent sanctions from the Trump Treasury are being described as a “full attack” on one of the most dangerous drug cartels operating along the southern border, according to local border officials. This week, the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) designated two Mexican nationals, Miguel Angel de Ande Ledesma and Ricardo Gonzalez Sauduta, as targets of these sanctions.
Earlier in the year, the State Department classified the CDN, among others, as “foreign terrorist organizations.” In light of the new sanctions, all assets owned or controlled by Ledesma and Gonzalez in the U.S. have been frozen.
Treasury Secretary Scott Bescent mentioned that the department is committed to eradicating the cartel’s influence to ensure safety in America. He characterized the CDN’s leadership as responsible for severe acts of violence and criminality. “The CDN will continue its violent tactics, including blackmail and terror, affecting communities on both sides of the southern border,” he stated. The Treasury aims to disrupt the cartel’s operations involving drugs, firearms, and finances.
Paul Perez, who heads the National Border Patrol Council in South Texas, noted that despite the Trump administration’s efforts significantly curtailing illegal crossings, the cartel threat remains persistent. He expressed concern regarding the sophistication of these cartels, mentioning their use of advanced technology like drones.
“These aren’t just simple street gangs,” he remarked. “They have a well-established network of individuals experienced in this industry, capable of effectively distributing their products.” He observed that in Mexico, cartels operate with a sense of immunity, often fleeing into the U.S. during violent confrontations, posing a risk to American citizens.
Regarding the CDN, Perez condemned their actions, stating they engage in horrific behavior comparable to other deadly cartels, all of which are involved in trafficking fentanyl and other drugs.
Perez believes that by targeting the leadership within the CDN, the Trump administration is fostering internal strife, thereby reducing the cartel’s overall strength. He asserted that these efforts represent a concerted attack from the U.S., contributing to border security in a way that he feels hasn’t been prioritized recently.
“President Trump has consistently stated his commitment to safeguarding the U.S. and its people,” Perez remarked, endorsing the administration’s actions against cartel operations.
