United States President Donald Trump has pledged stronger military action against drug cartels operating across the Western Hemisphere, urging regional leaders to work closely with the United States to dismantle the powerful criminal networks.
Trump made the remarks while speaking at the Shield of the Americas Summit in Florida, where leaders from several Latin American countries gathered to discuss security cooperation and strategies to combat organized crime.
During his address, Trump emphasized that the United States was prepared to provide military support to help countries struggling with cartel violence and drug trafficking.
“We’ll get rid of them. We need your help. You have to just tell us where they are,” Trump said, as he outlined plans for a new regional security initiative.
The president announced the formation of what he described as the “America’s Counter Cartel Coalition,” a military partnership involving multiple countries aimed at eliminating criminal groups responsible for drug trafficking, extortion, kidnapping, and violent crimes across the region.
According to Trump, the coalition will strengthen intelligence sharing, security coordination, and military operations among participating nations.
He said the growing influence of transnational gangs and cartels had become a serious threat to national security across the Americas, warning that many of the groups now possess sophisticated weapons and military-style capabilities.
Trump argued that traditional law enforcement alone may not be enough to tackle the cartels, calling for stronger use of military power where necessary.
He also highlighted the role of the United States in supporting allies through intelligence, technology, and advanced weaponry.
Among the leaders present at the summit were Argentina’s President Javier Milei and El Salvador’s President Nayib Bukele, both of whom have been outspoken about the need for tougher action against organized crime.
Trump praised several leaders for their cooperation with Washington and stressed that the fight against cartel violence must involve coordinated regional action.
The summit also focused on strengthening economic cooperation, improving border security, and preventing the flow of illegal drugs into the United States.
Trump maintained that tackling cartel networks would not only protect American communities but also help restore stability and safety across Latin America.
He added that with collective effort and strong leadership, governments in the region could significantly weaken the criminal organizations that have operated for decades.