Trump’s Military Action Against Cartels

On Friday, August 8, President Donald Trump made a significant move by ordering the U.S. military to take action against Mexican and other Latin American drug cartels. This decision follows his declaration of these violent groups as foreign terrorist organizations early in his second term. The deployment of military forces to the southern border, and potentially beyond, is seen as a crucial step for national security.

The Growing Threat of Cartels

The threat posed by drug cartels is more severe than many Americans realize. Evidence suggests that corrupt Mexican military and law enforcement officials are aiding these cartels on U.S. soil. Trump’s efforts to secure the border contrast sharply with former President Joe Biden’s approach, which some critics argue was ineffective.

Border Security: A National Imperative

Securing the border involves more than preventing illegal immigration; it also includes intercepting deadly drugs and stopping criminals, terrorists, and hostile agents from entering the country. Between May and July, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) reported no illegal immigrants released into the nation’s interior under Trump’s administration. In contrast, during the same period in 2024, Biden’s administration released 212,000 illegal aliens with a promise to report to immigration judges, a promise many did not keep.

Incursions by Mexican Authorities

A Freedom of Information Act request revealed 78 incidents of Mexican military or law enforcement incursions into U.S. territory between 2014 and 2019. Of these, 39 were significant violations likely linked to cartel activities. The reports highlight the challenges faced by Border Patrol agents who often operate with limited resources against heavily armed forces.

Technological Advancements in Border Surveillance

Significant investments have improved border surveillance technology since Trump’s first term. Autonomous Surveillance Towers and aerostat surveillance balloons now provide better nighttime coverage. However, gaps remain due to property owners’ reluctance to host surveillance equipment and broken cameras.

The Role of Drones in Cartel Operations

Drones have become a tool for cartels and Mexican officials, used for counter-surveillance and area denial. The increase in drone sightings near the border poses a new challenge for U.S. authorities.

Military Intervention as a Solution

The rise of the Mexican narco-state presents a grave national security challenge that DHS alone cannot handle. Targeted military operations are necessary to address armed incursions effectively and send a strong message to Mexico City about respecting American sovereignty.