Cartels fear US retaliation as Trump-era pressure reshapes strategy: 'They fear the United States'

Experts suggest Mexican drug cartels are increasingly avoiding direct attacks on American citizens and tourists in Mexico due to fear of potential U.S. retaliation. This apprehension stems from actions taken during the Trump administration, including designating cartels as foreign terrorist organizations and carrying out high-profile operations abroad. Analysts believe these actions have heightened the cartels' perception of risk, leading them to prioritize protecting revenue streams and avoiding actions that could provoke a strong U.S. response. Cartel expert Elena Chávez stated that cartels are well-informed and monitor U.S. actions, especially bounties placed on their leaders. Trump recently addressed the Shield of the Americas Summit, emphasizing the need to combat cartels, which he claims are gaining control in Mexico.

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