The Trump administration has officially designated eight Latin American crime organizations as “foreign terrorist organizations,” in a move aimed at increasing pressure on cartels operating in the U.S. and those who support them. This decision, in line with a January 20 executive order by President Donald Trump, includes naming groups such as Tren de Aragua in Venezuela and MS-13 in El Salvador. The formal publication of this designation is set to appear in Thursday’s edition of the Federal Register.
President Trump has consistently prioritized securing the U.S.-Mexico border, with initiatives ranging from mass deportations to deploying active duty troops and negotiating agreements with certain countries to manage migrant flows. The classification of these Latin American crime organizations as “foreign terrorist organizations” is notable, as this designation is typically reserved for groups like al-Qaida or the Islamic State that pursue political objectives through violence, rather than profit-driven criminal enterprises like the cartels.
The Trump administration justifies this move by pointing to the international reach and activities of these groups, which encompass drug trafficking, human smuggling, and violent efforts to expand their territories. However, critics argue that this broad and severe designation could have negative repercussions, potentially straining relations and disrupting trade with Latin American countries. Concerns have been raised that businesses, financial institutions, and consumers may become wary of engaging in any transactions that could be linked, directly or indirectly, to these designated organizations.
These cartels have a significant presence in Mexico's economy, engaging not only in drug trafficking and human smuggling but also competing for control over lucrative industries such as the multibillion-dollar avocado trade. Past instances of the U.S. designating groups as foreign terrorist organizations have raised alarms among aid organizations, as such actions could impact overall food imports by creating apprehension among shipping companies fearful of potential legal repercussions.
In response to President Trump's order establishing this new formal designation, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum emphasized Mexico's commitment to defending its sovereignty and independence while expressing a willingness to collaborate in combating drug cartels. She highlighted the importance of each country addressing criminal activities within its own borders, stating that the U.S. and Mexico share a common goal of combating the influence of these cartels.
