As attacks on Venezuelan narco-terrorists continue to escalate, President Trump is reportedly considering phase two of an operation to dismantle the drug trade. According to reports, the Trump administration is exploring the deployment of U.S. troops into Mexico to target drug cartels, marking a significant shift in strategy.

The potential mission would involve using drone strikes to eliminate drug labs and cartel leaders, with U.S. forces operating under Title 50 authority, which grants intelligence community oversight. Special operations personnel from the Joint Special Operations Command and CIA officers are expected to participate. The plan includes ground operations within Mexico, though a deployment is not imminent, as discussions about its scope remain ongoing.

This approach would diverge from past U.S. administrations, which focused on supporting Mexican law enforcement rather than direct military action against cartels. If approved, the mission would prioritize secrecy, mirroring recent covert operations targeting drug-smuggling vessels. A senior administration official emphasized the commitment to addressing cartel threats through an “all-of-government approach.”

Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum has previously rejected U.S. military involvement, stating, “We cooperate, we collaborate, but there is not going to be an invasion.” The White House reportedly aims to avoid overt militarization, instead focusing on clandestine drone strikes. The initiative faces uncertainties, including diplomatic tensions and operational challenges.