Trump Endorses Direct Strikes on Mexican Cartels, Mexico Firmly Rejects Intervention

Former President Donald Trump announced his support for direct military strikes against drug cartels within Mexico to curb the flow of illicit drugs into the United States. Speaking on Monday, Trump stated, "Would I launch strikes in Mexico to stop drugs? It’s okay with me! Whatever we have to do to stop the drugs!" This declaration signals a potential escalation in the U.S. approach to combating transnational criminal organizations.

Trump further emphasized his dissatisfaction with Mexico's efforts, noting that he is "not happy with Mexico" and that the U.S. government maintains "major surveillance" on drug corridors. His remarks come amidst an intensified campaign against maritime drug trafficking, which has included authorizing more forceful interdiction operations and expanding U.S. forces' authority to disable or sink suspected narcotics vessels.

In response, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum unequivocally dismissed the possibility of U.S. military intervention. Sheinbaum stated, "We do not want intervention" and firmly added, "It's not going to happen," reiterating Mexico's stance against any foreign government interference on its sovereign territory. She has previously pointed to historical U.S.-Mexico conflicts as a cautionary tale against such actions.

The Trump administration has increasingly focused on Mexican cartels, designating several as Foreign Terrorist Organizations (FTOs) since January 2025. This designation provides a legal framework for potential military action. Reports from August 2025 indicated that Trump had secretly directed the Pentagon to prepare options for using military force against cartels, driven by concerns over fentanyl trafficking.

Analysts warn that unilateral military action carries significant risks, including potential retaliation from highly organized cartels, which could destabilize Mexico and lead to increased violence, possibly extending into the U.S. While the U.S. aims to disrupt the lucrative drug trade, some experts suggest that direct strikes might be perceived as a "PR stunt" rather than a lasting solution, potentially undermining crucial bilateral cooperation.