Trump orders military action against cartels and plans Putin talks in Alaska

An editorial look at Trump's directive to use the military against cartels and his plan to meet Putin.

Trump orders military action against cartels and plans Putin talks in Alaska

Donald Trump has reportedly issued a secret directive to the Pentagon to target Latin American drug cartels that the administration designates as terrorist organizations. The New York Times first reported the directive, citing people familiar with the matter. A U.S. official later confirmed the signing, but said military action did not appear imminent and the exact operations remain unclear. The move has drawn quick reaction from Mexico, where President Claudia Sheinbaum urged calm and stressed the need for cooperation rather than unilateral action.

The directive comes as the administration expands its focus on transborder crime and follows February steps that designated several cartels as foreign terrorist organizations. At the same time, Trump is planning a meeting with Vladimir Putin in Alaska to discuss Ukraine, suggesting that any settlement could involve concessions tied to territory. The interplay between aggressive countercrime rhetoric and high-stakes diplomacy has put allies and rivals on alert while testing the limits of presidential authority.

If true, the order signals a shift in how the United States might use force abroad in the name of crime control. It raises questions about legal authority, congressional oversight, and the potential for blowback in neighboring countries. The lack of operational details invites scrutiny and creates room for misinterpretation or overreach. The broader risk is that a quick, unilateral move could complicate partnerships and escalate tensions without a clear, accountable plan.

Separately, the Putin meeting in Alaska signals a broader strategy that blends domestic political messaging with foreign policy gambits. It sends a message about American resolve, but it also risks tying together fragile peace talks with aggressive counter-narcotics moves in a volatile region. The coming weeks will test how far power can stretch while staying compliant with checks and balances and international norms.

Highlights

The balance between decisive action and prudent restraint will define the administration’s next steps.