Overview
- Press secretary Karoline Leavitt said Mexico has shown “extraordinary” cooperation and “historic advances,” while confirming Trump is interested in additional steps against cartels.
- No specific actions were announced, with Leavitt noting the National Security team is “constantly” analyzing options.
- Trump said he would not rule out authorizing attacks in Mexico to target cartels, adding he would be “proud” to do so even as he stopped short of declaring any operation.
- President Claudia Sheinbaum rejected any foreign military intervention, stressing Mexico will operate on its own territory and will only accept intelligence support.
- Recent context includes Operation Lanza del Sur, which has destroyed roughly 20 suspected trafficking boats since September with more than 80 reported fatalities, alongside reported internal U.S. divisions from hardline advisers to officials cautioning against unilateral action.