TL;DR ; President Trump says the U.S. is now at war with drug cartels, treating them like terrorist groups. This allowed the military to strike drug boats in the Caribbean, killing 17 people. Congress was told on October 2, but some lawmakers are upset because they didn't approve it.
🔹 Key Points
U.S. Declares Armed Conflict With Cartels
- President Trump declared that the U.S. is in a "non-international armed conflict" with drug cartels, treating them as "unlawful combatants" and terrorist organizations.
- A memo from the White House said cartels’ actions “constitute an armed attack against the United States.”
Military Strikes Authorized
- U.S. military conducted multiple strikes in the Caribbean in August and September 2025, targeting suspected cartel boats from Venezuela and Mexico.
- The Pentagon confirmed at least 17 suspected cartel members were killed.
- One strike cited in the memo involved a boat linked to Tren de Aragua, a Venezuelan gang.
Legal Justification and Use of Force
- Trump administration claims these actions are allowed under international law and wartime powers of the President.
- The memo argues strikes are legal under self-defense and the law of armed conflict.
- Secretary of State Marco Rubio said: “What will stop them is when you blow them up, when you get rid of them.”
Congress Informed After the Strikes
- The Pentagon notified Congress on October 2, 2025, after the strikes had already taken place.
- Some lawmakers say this amounts to a “secret war” without proper approval from Congress.
- Senator Jack Reed (D-RI) called it an "unconstitutional overreach."
Expanded Military Role and Operations
- U.S. Navy, Special Operations, and drones are now involved in operations beyond law enforcement scope.
- The Trump administration designated multiple cartels (e.g., Sinaloa, CJNG, Tren de Aragua) as Foreign Terrorist Organizations (FTOs) in January 2025.
- Up to 500 personnel reportedly deployed; high-tech surveillance and drones are in use.
International Reactions
- Mexico condemned the strikes as a “violation of sovereignty.”
- Trinidad and Tobago supported U.S. efforts but urged caution to avoid civilian casualties.
- China criticized the move but took no direct action.
Cartel Response and Risks
- The Sinaloa Cartel released a threatening video promising retaliation.
- Experts warn of civilian risks, legal issues, and possible cartel attacks in U.S. border towns.