Intelligence-gathering efforts continue under Trump administration in coordination with Mexico.
The U.S. has been conducting surveillance drone flights over Mexico as part of a joint effort to track cartel operations and locate fentanyl labs, officials confirmed.
The program, originally authorized by the Biden administration, has continued under President Donald Trump, with the use of unarmed MQ-9 Reaper drones to gather intelligence.
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum acknowledged on Wednesday that these surveillance operations are happening with the full cooperation and at the request of the Mexican government.
The collected intelligence is shared with Mexican authorities, who have the jurisdiction to take action against illegal cartel activities and synthetic opioid production.
The Trump administration has intensified pressure on Mexico to crack down on fentanyl production, as the synthetic opioid continues to flood into the U.S., fueling the overdose crisis.
Officials stress that the drone operations are strictly for intelligence gathering and do not involve direct military action.
As both nations work together to combat the drug trade, the surveillance program underscores the growing role of technology in border security and international cooperation.
However, many officials say the effectiveness of these efforts will depend on Mexico’s willingness and ability to act on the intelligence provided.
