President Donald Trump confirmed on December 24, 2025, that the United States will launch ground strikes against drug cartel targets in Latin America, marking a new phase in the fight against transnational trafficking.
Speaking during Christmas greetings to the military, Trump said the U.S. was "now going after the land" in its battle to dismantle cartel networks. He noted that drug trafficking by sea routes has dropped 96 percent since early 2025.
The shift to land operations follows coordinated efforts with regional partners in the Caribbean, where the aircraft carrier USS Gerald R. Ford has been deployed. Trump extended special congratulations to its crew for their ongoing missions in the region.
Experts say targeting overland corridors could disrupt cartel supply chains that have adapted to stricter maritime patrols. Data-driven surveillance, drone reconnaissance, and joint task forces are expected to play key roles in the upcoming strikes.
For young travelers and digital nomads exploring Latin America, the new operations signal heightened security activity along popular border crossings. Staying informed through local advisories and leveraging travel-tech apps can help navigate changing conditions on the ground.
Business and tech communities are watching closely, as reductions in illicit trade routes can impact regional markets and supply chains. Entrepreneurs and startups invested in logistics, cybersecurity, and intelligence analytics may find new opportunities in evolving security partnerships.
As 2025 draws to a close, the U.S. administration's move underlines a broader strategy to adapt tactics against drug cartels. With sea interdictions at record highs, the focus on land aims to close remaining gaps and reduce the flow of illicit substances into North America.
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Trump confirms upcoming ground strikes on Latin American drug cartels
cgtn.com
