Amid escalating rhetoric from President Donald Trump, the US government has designated eight Latin American criminal and drug-trafficking groups as “global terrorist organizations.”
In a Federal Register notice, Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that these groups have either committed or pose a risk of committing terrorist acts that threaten US national security, foreign policy, or economy.
Listed Groups
The eight groups designated as terrorist organizations are:
- Tren de Aragua
- Mara Salvatrucha (MS-13)
- Cartel de Sinaloa
- Cartel de Jalisco Nueva Generacion
- Carteles Unidos
- Cartel de Noreste
- Cartel del Golfo
- La Nueva Familia Michoacana
Expert Opinions
Experts argue that while these groups engage in violence and criminal activities, they lack the political or ideological motivations typically associated with terrorist organizations.
Stephanie Brewer from the Washington Office on Latin America (WOLA) stated:
“The US already monitors, sanctions, and prosecutes these groups, so this decision won’t change much in terms of available tools.”
Will Freeman from the Council on Foreign Relations warned:
“This designation could be used to accuse anyone—from migrants paying smugglers to Mexican businesses paying protection fees—of financing terrorism.”
Potential Impact on Immigration
The US has been cracking down on illegal immigration, and this move may further tighten restrictions on asylum seekers and migrants.
Controversial Decision & Missing Groups
Observers have also noted that Brazil’s powerful First Capital Command was not included in the list, raising questions about the transparency and motives behind this decision.
