In a recent memo to Congress, President Donald Trump has declared that the United States is engaged in an "armed conflict" with drug cartels, which he has designated as terrorist organizations. This determination is based on the President's assessment of ongoing threats posed by these groups, which he describes as non-state armed entities conducting attacks against U.S. citizens and interests.
The memo, reported this week, emphasizes a critical juncture for the U.S. in terms of national security, suggesting that military action may be necessary to combat drug smuggling operations. The Trump administration has already executed strikes against vessels believed to be transporting narcotics, including actions against boats linked to the Tren de Aragua cartel.
According to the memo, the designation of these cartels as terrorist organizations reflects their violent activities and the cumulative impact of their operations on American safety. The memo notes that the U.S. military is prepared to engage in operations aimed at neutralizing this threat, with the intent of preventing further harm to citizens.
The State Department has previously classified various gangs, including Tren de Aragua and MS-13, as foreign terrorist organizations. The administration's recent military strikes, described as acts of self-defense, have targeted specific vessels involved in drug trafficking, with claims that these actions are necessary to protect the nation from dangerous substances.
White House spokesperson Anna Kelly reinforced that the President's actions align with the law of armed conflict and underscore a commitment to address the cartel threat. The memo concludes with a call for decisive action to safeguard American lives against these designated threats.