Staff Reports
A significant step has been undertaken in the battle against drug cartels that have wreaked havoc on both sides of the U.S.-Mexico border. Under the decisively bold leadership of Secretary of State Marco Rubio, and according to directives from President Donald Trump, the U.S. government is designating several notorious Mexican and South American drug cartels as terrorist organizations. It appears that the administration is finally ready to tackle the chaos caused by these criminal enterprises with every tool at its disposal.
The executive action in question evaluates multiple cartels, including the likes of Tren de Aragua, MS-13, the infamous Sinaloa Cartel, and the Jalisco New Generation Cartel, among others. These organizations have been running rampant, terrorizing local populations and effectively treating regions like their own personal fiefdoms, all while smuggling drugs and violence into the United States. By formally labeling them as Foreign Terrorist Organizations, the government aims to send a clear message that these groups will not find safe haven or lenient treatment.
🚨 The U.S. has officially declared the following as Foreign Terrorist Organizations: Tren de Aragua, MS-13, the Sinaloa Cartel, the Jalisco New Generation Cartel, the United Cartels, the Gulf Cartel, the Northeast Cartel, and the Michoacán Family. pic.twitter.com/cgcw9juyEl
— Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) February 19, 2025
This groundbreaking designation stems from a thorough review of administrative records and consultation with key officials across the Department of Justice and the Department of the Treasury. It affirms that these organizations meet the criteria outlined in the Immigration and Nationality Act. By employing the “terrorist” label, Secretary Rubio has not only taken a firm stance against cartels but has also opened the door for increased federal action – because, let’s face it, these cartels don’t happen to have a ‘welcome mat’ for the U.S. to tread on.
President Trump’s executive order underscores the gravity of the situation, calling out the rampant violence and drug trafficking that these cartels perpetuate. Terror, murder, and a complete lack of law and order are not fitting for any country, especially a neighbor to the United States. The message is unequivocal: these are not just gangs; they are entities that threaten both American lives and stability in the region. If they were struggling with day-to-day operations before, they might want to reconsider their career tracks in light of this new designation.
Additionally, the CIA isn’t just twiddling its thumbs in the wake of this declaration. Reports indicate that they’re actively deploying drones into Mexico for real-time surveillance of cartel activities. This action reflects a strategic shift towards adopting a more proactive approach to national security. After all, if the cartels aim to operate as quasi-governmental bodies, then the United States can pull up a chair and ensure they know that Uncle Sam is watching – and judging.
With the cartels officially classified as terrorists, the repercussions of their actions are about to receive the serious scrutiny and attention they deserve. The stakes have never been higher, and the time for action could not be more critical. America is drawing a hard line, and it seems that the era of letting these cartels dictate terms is finally nearing an end. For once, it feels like U.S. policies are aligning against those who thrive on chaos and fear.
