🌍Trump orders Pentagon to target five drug cartels with US forces
Foreign Policy
National Security
Government
On August 8, 2025, President Trump signed a secret directive authorizing the Pentagon to designate five major Latin American drug cartels as foreign terrorist organizations and deploy US special operations teams and armed drones against them. The order bypasses the War Powers Resolution of 1973 and reallocates at least 1,200 troops across bases in Mexico and Colombia. Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum condemned the move, while Sen. Marco Rubio and Veteran Affairs Secretary Pete Hegseth praised the escalation.
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Key Takeaways
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Why This Matters
Executive bypass of War Powers Resolution undermines Congressional oversight
By labeling cartels as terrorists and deploying forces without authorization, Trump sets a new precedent for unilateral military action that erodes checks and balances.
Latin American sovereignty is at risk
Mexico and Colombia face pressure to host US forces or risk diplomatic fallout, increasing regional tensions and potential backlash against civilian populations.
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