West Florida News

U.S. Representative Greg Steube has introduced a joint resolution that would authorize the use of military force against certain Mexican drug cartels. This move aims to allow the Trump administration to deploy U.S. military resources in combating groups such as Tren de Aragua, Mara Salvatrucha (MS-13), and several others.

Fox News reports that Congressman Steube's resolution seeks to empower the Trump administration by authorizing "the president to use the full force of the American military" against nine significant criminal organizations affecting American cities.

Among these groups is Tren de Aragua, an international gang linked to crimes including the murder of Georgia nursing student Laken Riley and a violent incident in Aurora, Colorado. The group is also suspected of connections with Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro.

The resolution highlights that these gangs have "violated the territorial integrity of the United States" and pose "a clear and evident danger" to Americans. The urgency stems from growing concerns over border security and opioid-related deaths, with over 200 Americans dying daily from fentanyl overdoses attributed to cartel activities across all 50 states.

Rep. Greg Steube stated, "We can no longer ignore the deliberate invasion of Mexican drug cartels into our neighborhoods and communities." He emphasized that these are organized criminal enterprises causing significant harm through death and addiction.

Steube argues for immediate action unless Mexico takes steps against these cartels: "Until such time that the Mexican government finally steps up... Congress must give President Trump and Secretary Hegseth the green light."

The proposed joint resolution seeks congressional approval for military intervention targeting major drug cartels based in Mexico.