CIA Reviews Legal Grounds for Lethal Actions Against Drug Cartels

The Trump administration explores drone strikes and covert operations as part of an escalating counter-cartel strategy, though no final decisions have been made.

The CIA is conducting a legal review to assess its authority for lethal actions against drug cartels, including the use of drone strikes and covert operations.
This review is exploratory, with no direct order from President Trump, and aims to evaluate legal risks, including potential harm to American citizens.
The Trump administration previously designated several Latin American cartels as Foreign Terrorist Organizations, laying the groundwork for more aggressive countermeasures.
Discussions involve potential collaboration with the Mexican government, though unilateral actions without Mexico's consent remain an option of last resort.
Officials and experts warn of significant diplomatic, ethical, and legal challenges, including potential retaliation from cartels and strained U.S.-Mexico relations.