Trump Allegedly Allows Military to Attack ‘Terrorist’ Drug Cartels

Trump Orders Military Action Against Drug Cartels

President Donald Trump has directed the US military to take action against drug cartels, classifying them as foreign terrorist organizations, according to a report from the New York Times. On Friday, a source familiar with the matter indicated that Trump signed an order aimed at these cartels. Now, Pentagon officials are developing strategies for military engagement with a criminal network linked to the distribution of deadly drugs in the US.

The list of cartels declared as foreign terrorist organizations includes Trende Lagua, MS-13, the Sinaloa Cartel, the Jalisco New Generation Cartel, the United Cartel, the Gulf Cartel, the Northeast Cartel, and the Michoacan family.

Details about when Trump initiated this policy remain unclear. While his orders could lead to legal complications due to their unconventional nature, they potentially establish a legitimate foundation for military actions against these cartels, whether abroad or at sea.

Additionally, Trump has been enhancing military involvement in immigration issues, having deployed thousands of troops to secure the southern border. Reportedly, the Pentagon is reviewing requests from the Department of Homeland Security for support, which may include 20,000 troops.

In February, Trump also persuaded Mexico to contribute 10,000 of its military personnel to help curb illegal immigration, in exchange for halting tariffs.