Mexico has rejected reports that US military forces could enter its territory, following claims that President Donald Trump directed the Pentagon to target Latin American drug cartels. Speaking on Friday, President Claudia Sheinbaum declared, “The United States is not going to come to Mexico with the military… That is ruled out, absolutely ruled out.” Follow Republic Policy Website
The New York Times reported that Trump had signed a secret directive authorising military force abroad. While the White House did not confirm the order, it emphasised that Trump’s “top priority is protecting the homeland.” This move comes after an earlier executive order formally designating eight cartels as terrorist entities—six based in Mexico. Follow Republic Policy YouTube
Sheinbaum said Mexico was told an order on cartels was coming but insisted “it had nothing to do with the participation of any military personnel,” stressing that sovereignty would not be compromised. Follow Republic Policy Twitter
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio defended the designation, saying it allows the US to treat cartels as “armed terrorist organisations” and take action through intelligence and the Department of Defense. Follow Republic Policy Facebook
In recent months, Mexico has worked with the US to reduce illegal migration and drug smuggling across the border, with June recording the lowest crossings on record and fentanyl seizures dropping by more than half. Follow Republic Policy TikTok
