Recent reports suggest that President-elect Donald Trump and his transition team are seriously considering military action against Mexico as part of their strategy to combat drug cartels and the fentanyl crisis. This controversial plan has drawn comparisons to the Iraq War and raised significant concerns among experts and officials.
According to sources close to the Trump transition team, discussions are underway regarding the extent of potential military intervention in Mexico. Options being considered range from a “soft invasion” involving covert special forces operations to assassinate cartel leaders, to more overt military actions such as drone strikes, airstrikes, and the deployment of U.S. troops.
Trump has reportedly been gathering “battle plans” to attack drug cartels in Mexico since early 2023, with or without Mexico’s permission. His nominees for key positions, including Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth and Secretary of State Marco Rubio, have spoken favorably of U.S. military action against Mexico.
The proposed plan poses a significant risk to U.S.-Mexico relations, potentially setting them back by decades, as former Mexican ambassador Gerónimo Gutiérrez cautioned.
Many experts contend that military interventions against cartels would do little to curb fentanyl smuggling or save lives because drug organizations are adept at quickly rebuilding labs and can operate from multiple locations, including within the United States and Canada.
Also, according to the Cato Institute, military strikes in Mexico could lead to a “quagmire” without effectively reducing drug flow across the U.S. southern border. Experts stress that organized crime is driven by profit rather than ideology; thus, labeling it as terrorism misdirects resources away from effective solutions. Hence, a successful “terrorist” designation would allow Trump the legal framework for military operations in Mexico as well as additional economic and social sanctions.
Perhaps eliminating the demand for fentanyl would work best? If no one purchases it, the cartels will go away. They have influence only because we, as Americans, give it to them.
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum has responded to Trump’s plans by emphasizing the need for collaboration between the two countries to fight drug trafficking, while firmly stating, “We collaborate, we coordinate, we work together, but we will never subordinate ourselves.”.As the debate continues, many are drawing parallels to the Iraq War, warning of potential unintended consequences and the risks of military intervention based on flawed premises. The coming months will likely see intense scrutiny of Trump’s plans as he prepares to take office.
Here’s an idea – Americans should just say “No” to drugs. Problem solved.