Mexico City, February 18, 2025. In a harsh statement, President Donald Trump claimed that Mexico is largely governed by drug cartels. During a press conference in Florida, he warned that these criminal groups have taken on a quasi-governmental role, controlling territories and operating with total impunity.
Trump's statement reinforces concerns about the loss of sovereignty and the collapse of the rule of law in large regions of Mexico.
Trump not only criticized the situation but also reiterated his offer of military assistance to combat the cartels. His administration has pushed for covert operations and surveillance drone flights over Mexico.
According to reports from CNN and The New York Times, MQ-9 Reaper drones have been deployed to locate fentanyl labs. Although they currently do not have authorization for lethal attacks, the strategy makes clear Trump's firm stance against drug trafficking.
Sheinbaum evades the crisis and "defends sovereignty"
In response to Trump's statements, President Claudia Sheinbaum replied evasively. In an attempt to downplay the issue, she highlighted the “collaboration” with the U.S. on security matters but rejected any intervention.
However, this stance raises doubts. The security crisis in Mexico is worsening, and the government's inability to contain the cartels leaves the population vulnerable to uncontrolled violence.
The human cost of inaction
Trump's proposals have caused controversy. Some sectors warn that an extreme militarization could affect vulnerable communities, as has already happened with failed security strategies in past administrations.
Nevertheless, the reality is that violence in Mexico is not decreasing. Drug trafficking continues to expand its power, and Sheinbaum's government seems incapable of stopping its advance.
Meanwhile, Trump proposes direct intervention, the Mexican administration continues to deny the magnitude of the problem. The question remains: How much more must Mexico's security collapse before the government acts with determination?
