Concerns are mounting as U.S. officials spotlight the surge in drone use by Mexican criminal organizations near the Mexico-U.S. border. They foresee potential threats unfolding on American soil. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security recorded over 27,000 drones detected near the southern border in the latter half of 2024. This represents a marked increase in cross-border drone activities, primarily serving narcotics smuggling and surveillance endeavors.
Cartels wielding drones as weapons highlight their expanding role in global conflicts, such as in Ukraine. U.S. authorities are actively working with Mexico. They’re offering training on measures to counteract these drones, aiming to mitigate the threat. The U.S. has also undertaken drone surveillance over Mexico, sanctioned by the Mexican government, to gather intelligence on narcotic operations.
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum has acknowledged these concerns but noted no new drone operations at the border. She emphasized the ongoing security collaboration between the two nations and pointed to a strong Northern Border Operation deploying 10,000 National Guard troops for border security. Despite these assurances, U.S. security agencies remain wary of the suspected cartel drone operations’ calculated risks.
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