With President-elect Donald Trump preparing to assume office, Mexican officials are bracing for the possibility of military action. Trump previously floated the idea of targeting cartel operations with military strikes during his first term, though the plan was abandoned at the time.

https://t.co/Mv86wlKIUQ
President-elect Trump plans to designate Mexican drug cartels as foreign terrorist organizations, a move he previously shelved at the request of Mexico's then-president. His strategy includes military intervention and using special forces to combat cartel…

— The America One News (@am1_news) December 25, 2024

Mexico’s president, Claudia Sheinbaum, dismissed the notion of an invasion, stating firmly, “There won’t be an invasion. It’s not going to happen.” However, the issue remains critical as cartels continue trafficking deadly fentanyl into the U.S., a crisis responsible for thousands of American deaths annually.

The headline should have read, "Mexico officials are worried that Trump using the military against cartels will impact their side hustle." The cartel are able to do what they do because they are allowed by Mexican officials for a price.

— Marilyn Fire (@Marilyn2Mills) December 29, 2024

Trump’s team has signaled a more aggressive approach. Rep. Mike Waltz (R-FL), Trump’s pick for national security adviser, previously introduced legislation proposing the use of military force against cartels. Former Green Beret Ronald D. Johnson, chosen as ambassador to Mexico, also has a background suggesting alignment with Trump’s tough stance.

Mexico says “any US soldiers or agents involved in the killing or capture of a drug cartel boss could face murder or kidnapping charges in Mexico”.

Should the US avoid taking military action in Mexico against drug cartels because of this? @WarrenDavidson @jackwindsor

— Stand & Speak (@LadDilgard) December 29, 2024

Jorge Castaneda, a former Mexican foreign minister, expressed concern, stating that Johnson’s resume sends a clear message about Trump’s intentions. “He is not coming to Mexico for economic or trade matters,” Castaneda remarked, emphasizing the focus on security.

I would rather make Mexico part of America and absorb the people already here. Label the cartel a terrorist organization and use the military and NATO to push out the cartel. Make Mexico as prosperous and safe as America while lowering both our crime. I love Mexico.

— Joseph (@JosephandPaxton) December 29, 2024

During his campaign, Trump proposed designating cartels as foreign terrorist organizations and employing special forces to dismantle their networks. Additionally, he announced plans for tariffs on imports from Mexico and Canada if those nations failed to crack down on drug trafficking.

In November, Trump pledged to launch a public campaign highlighting the dangers of fentanyl.