U.S. President Donald J. Trump has issued an executive order (E.O. 14157) on January 20, 2025 to classify certain international criminal cartels and transnational organizations as Foreign Terrorist Organizations (FTOs) or Specially Designated Global Terrorists (SDGTs) under the authority of the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) and the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA). This move aims to address the national security threats posed by these groups through more stringent legal and enforcement measures.
Key Objectives and Threats Identified
- National Security Threats:
Cartels and transnational organizations (e.g., Tren de Aragua and MS-13) have evolved from traditional organized crime to complex, adaptive entities with significant influence across the Western Hemisphere. These groups engage in terrorism, drug trafficking, and violent crime, infiltrating governments and threatening U.S. interests both domestically and abroad. - Quasi-Governmental Control:
In parts of Mexico and other regions, cartels act as de facto rulers, enforcing authority through campaigns of terror, including assassination, kidnapping, and rape. They control most illegal traffic across the U.S. southern border, including the smuggling of drugs, violent criminals, and weapons. - Transnational Operations:
Cartels and organizations like TdA and MS-13 operate both inside and outside U.S. borders, creating a unique and extraordinary risk to the national security, economy, and foreign policy of the United States.
Policy Directives
The order establishes a national emergency to eliminate these organizations’ presence and ability to operate within U.S. territory. This includes:
- Designating cartels and related organizations as FTOs or SDGTs.
- Implementing swift operational measures to counter these groups’ threats.
- Preparing necessary facilities and legal frameworks for expedited actions, including detainment and removal of actors involved in predatory incursions.
Implementation Steps
- Within 14 Days:
The Secretary of State, in consultation with other federal agencies, must recommend which cartels and organizations qualify for designation under terrorism statutes. - Operational Readiness:
The Attorney General and Secretary of Homeland Security will make necessary preparations, including invoking the Alien Enemies Act if needed. - Coordination:
Federal agencies will collaborate to ensure compliance with legal standards and budgetary limitations.
Legal Framework and Scope
- The order will not undermine existing authorities or impair any functions assigned by law to government departments.
- It emphasizes that this measure does not create enforceable legal rights for any individual or entity against the U.S. government.
This executive action reflects a commitment to safeguarding national security by curbing the influence and operations of violent, transnational criminal networks through a comprehensive counter-terrorism approach.
Read the full executive order here: Designating Cartels And Other Organizations As Foreign Terrorist Organizations And Specially Designated Global Terrorists – The White House