WASHINGTON, D.C (US), BNN Web Staff — President Donald Trump has announced a significant shift in his administration’s strategy against drug trafficking, indicating that the United States will move beyond maritime interceptions to target cartels directly on land.
In an interview with Fox News’ Sean Hannity on Thursday, Trump claimed that current efforts have successfully neutralized 97% of drug shipments arriving by sea. “We are gonna start now hitting land, with regard to the cartels,” Trump stated, emphasizing a more aggressive posture toward smuggling networks.
The President expressed a grim view of the security situation in Mexico, asserting that cartels effectively “run” the country. These comments follow Trump’s recent suggestion of deploying U.S. military assistance to Mexico—a proposal he discussed with Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum while warning that Mexico must “get their act together.“
Mexico Responds: “Cooperation, Yes; Subordination, No”
The rhetoric has sparked a sharp diplomatic rebuttal from Mexico City. President Claudia Sheinbaum categorically rejected the notion of foreign intervention, citing a history of Latin American instability caused by external interference.
“The sovereignty and self-determination of peoples are not optional or negotiable,” Sheinbaum declared. “Only the people can build their own future and decide their path.”
The tension is heightened by recent regional events, specifically the U.S. military operation in Venezuela that led to the capture of President Nicolas Maduro. Sheinbaum used her platform to remind the U.S. of “shared responsibility,” pointing out that the violence in Mexico is fueled by:
The illegal flow of high-powered American firearms into Mexico.
The high demand for narcotics within the United States.
The activities of money laundering and distribution networks operating on both sides of the border.
While Sheinbaum reaffirmed Mexico’s commitment to humanitarian cooperation to stop the flow of fentanyl, she remained firm that Mexico would remain a “free, independent, and sovereign country,” rejecting any form of U.S. military or political subordination.
