President Donald Trump has informed Congress that the United States is in an “armed conflict” with drug cartels designated as terrorist organizations by his administration.
A Pentagon notice stated that cartel smugglers are now considered “unlawful combatants,” giving the Defense Department legal authority to conduct military strikes.
BREAKING: The Trump administration announces they are engaged in an "armed conflict with drug cartels," according to Fox News.
— Collin Rugg (@CollinRugg) October 2, 2025
"Based upon the cumulative effects of these hostile acts against the citizens and interests of the United States and friendly foreign nations, the… pic.twitter.com/c65jqceRly
The U.S. military has carried out at least three strikes in recent weeks, killing 17 people, though only one operation was included in the official notice. The September 15 strike targeted a vessel in the Caribbean allegedly tied to Venezuela’s Tren de Aragua cartel.
BREAKING — The Trump administration tells Congress the U.S. is now “in a non-international armed conflict” with drug cartels.
— Fox News (@FoxNews) October 2, 2025
Officials have also designated the cartels as “terrorist organizations.” pic.twitter.com/v0rEkfcmg7
The Pentagon argued that cartels now operate as transnational armed groups with paramilitary capabilities, justifying their designation as terrorist organizations.
Democrats criticized the move, warning it expands presidential war powers without congressional approval.
The Trump administration maintains that decisive military action is necessary to protect American citizens from cartel violence.
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TIPP Staff
TIPP Staff
