Trump Administration to Designate Mexican and Central American Cartels as Terrorist Groups
The Trump administration is set to officially designate several Mexican drug cartels and two from Central and South America as foreign terrorist organizations.
The Trump administration is preparing to take a significant step in combating international crime by designating a series of Mexican drug cartels and two from Central and South America as foreign terrorist organizations. This move, set to be announced on February 19, follows an executive order signed by President Trump aimed at eradicating these cartels.
The cartels to be designated include the Sinaloa Cartel, Cartel Jalisco New Generation, The Gulf Cartel, The Cartel Del Noreste faction of Los Zetas, Carteles Unidos, and Familia Michoacana. Additionally, the Central American gang Mara Salvatrucha and the South American Tren De Aragua will also be included in this designation.
This decision comes amidst ongoing violence in Mexico, characterized by the use of landmines and improvised explosive devices. Despite claims from the Mexican government of reduced crime and ended impunity, the reality on the ground remains dire.
The designation as foreign terrorist organizations is expected to enhance the U.S.’s ability to target these groups more effectively, including through increased financial sanctions and law enforcement measures. The move has been met with support from those advocating for stronger actions against cartels, which have long been linked to mass killings, widespread kidnapping, torture, and the use of explosives.
Implications of the Designation
By classifying these cartels as terrorist organizations, the Trump administration aims to disrupt their operations and limit their resources. This could potentially lead to a decrease in their ability to smuggle drugs into the United States and carry out violent activities in Mexico and beyond.
The designation also sends a strong message to other countries about the seriousness with which the U.S. views the threat posed by these cartels. It could encourage greater international cooperation in efforts to dismantle these criminal networks.
Challenges and Opposition
Despite the potential benefits, the decision has faced criticism from some quarters. Critics argue that it might strain relations with Mexico and other countries in the region, and could lead to unintended consequences such as increased violence as cartels react to heightened pressure.
Moreover, the effectiveness of this strategy will depend on the cooperation of local governments and the ability to enforce new measures. The history of cartels receiving protection from various levels of government in Mexico poses a significant challenge to the success of this initiative.
The Trump administration remains committed to this approach, emphasizing the need to address the root causes of violence and drug trafficking that have plagued the region for decades.