In an interview with the press at the White House on November 17 (US time), US President Donald Trump left open the possibility of conducting attacks on Mexico to deal with drug smuggling activities.
When asked about using force or conducting airstrikes, Mr. Trump said that was ugly to me and emphasized that any measures to help prevent drugs were considered. He declined to answer whether the move would require Mexico's permission, saying only that the two sides were still in talks and that Mexico understood his views.
Mr. Trump said the US has detailed information about drug trafficking routes and the locations of the leaders, considering this a war of losses for the American people. The Embassy of Mexico in Washington did not respond to the statement.
Press reports show that the US government has begun planning to deploy soldiers and intelligence personnel to Mexico to search for drug gangs, while Mexico's President Claudia Sheinbaum has affirmed that he will not accept US military action on its territory.
While answering questions, Mr. Trump suddenly moved to Colombia, saying he was proud to destroy the countrys cocaine factories and emphasizing that the US knew the full origin of drugs such as fentanyl and cocaine. The Colombian Embassy has not commented on his statement.
The Trump administration has launched nearly two dozen attacks on ships suspected of transporting drugs in the area, killing more than 80 people, including Colombian citizens. These actions led to a strong backlash from Colombian President Gustavo Petro and caused a rift in diplomatic relations. Mr Trump called Petro a drug leader and the US has imposed sanctions on him.
Trump also said he is considering a dialogue with Venezuelan President Nicolas Putin amid increased pressure in the region by including listing cartel de los Soles (which Washington says it is run by Putin Putin) as a foreign terrorist organization.
When asked if he would rule out sending troops to Venezuela, Trump replied that he not ruled out anything.
