Trump Vows Expanded Land Operations Against Latin American Drug Traffickers
WASHINGTON DC, Estados Unidos (February 10, 2026) – President Donald Trump reiterated his intention to authorize aggressive land operations targeting drug trafficking networks in Latin America, signaling a potential escalation of his administration’s efforts to curb the flow of illegal narcotics into the United States. The strategy, he indicated, would mirror recent maritime interdiction efforts that he claims have significantly reduced fentanyl shipments.
Speaking repeatedly on the issue, Trump has framed the fight against drug cartels as a national security imperative. He has specifically blamed cartels for a surge in overdose deaths within the U.S., alleging they exploit weak enforcement and require decisive action to dismantle their operations. The latest pronouncements build on previous statements made in November 2025, where he suggested imminent land strikes in Venezuela.
The shift towards land-based operations comes after the administration prioritized disrupting drug shipments at sea. Trump asserted that these maritime efforts have already yielded results, reducing drug flows by approximately one-third. However, he argued that traffickers have adapted by rerouting shipments, necessitating a new approach.
“Now we’re going to start on land,” Trump said, suggesting that targeting trafficking networks inland would prevent smugglers from simply reverting to maritime routes. He issued a warning to those involved in the drug trade: “Stop sending poison to our country.”
Details regarding the scope and nature of these proposed land operations remain largely undefined. Administration officials have not publicly disclosed which countries would be involved, whether U.S. Military forces would be deployed, or if the operations would be conducted in partnership with foreign governments or through expanded law enforcement activity. Crucially, it remains unclear whether the administration will seek congressional authorization before proceeding.
The announcement follows a significant U.S. Military buildup in the region, dubbed “Operation Southern Spear,” which involves more than a dozen warships and 15,000 troops. The U.S. Military has already engaged in direct action, reportedly killing over 80 individuals in boat strikes as part of the anti-drug trafficking campaign. This raises legal and diplomatic questions about the extent of presidential authority in authorizing military action abroad without explicit congressional approval.
In a move further escalating tensions, Trump designated Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his government allies as members of a foreign terrorist organization, along with a group referred to as “Cartel de los Soles.” While this designation allows for the imposition of fresh sanctions targeting Maduro’s assets, legal experts note it does not automatically authorize the use of lethal force.
The administration’s approach has drawn scrutiny, with concerns raised about potential U.S. And civilian casualties, as well as the possibility of unintended consequences if disrupting existing cartel structures creates a vacuum for new criminal organizations to emerge. Some legal observers have also questioned the legality of bombing a vessel rather than attempting to seize it, potentially exposing U.S. Troops to prosecution.
The move to target drug cartels with military force represents a departure from traditional law enforcement strategies. A recent airstrike on a boat in the Caribbean, allegedly operated by a cartel with ties to Venezuela, signaled this shift. The administration maintains that this new military effort is necessary to weaken drug gangs that have grown in power across the region, but the long-term implications of this strategy remain uncertain.
