Trump to Designate Mexican Cartels as Terrorist Organizations at Turning Point USA Event, Vowing to Expel All Foreign Gang Members

Dec 22, 2024, 07:55 PM

President-elect Donald Trump announced his intention to designate Mexican drug cartels as foreign terrorist organizations upon taking office on January 20, 2025. During a speech at a Turning Point USA event in Phoenix, Trump stated, "I will immediately designate the cartels as foreign terrorist organizations," and vowed to expel all foreign gang members. He emphasized the need to unleash the full power of federal law enforcement, including ICE and Border Patrol, to combat cartel activities. In response, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum asserted that Mexico would not accept any foreign interference, declaring, "Mexico is a free, sovereign, independent country," and emphasized the importance of collaboration without subordination. This announcement is expected to impact U.S.-Mexico relations as both leaders prepare for the upcoming transition of power.