The United States has been ramping up assets — both military and intelligence — to modify its force posture, assuming a more aggressive approach toward combating violent drug trafficking organizations and transnational criminal groups (reflagged as foreign terrorist organizations) in the Western hemisphere. There are already signs of potential escalation with Venezuela, including the operational tempo of increasing drone strikes against alleged drug boats, which, at the time of this writing, have totaled seven this year. It is important to acknowledge the real threats posed by the cartels, but also understand the risks associated with a military-led campaign. While most Americans might agree that the cartels represent a real threat and need to be dealt with, most will have little understanding of the costs and time required to fight the cartels, nor are they likely to expect the potential for horizontal escalation that the cartels can undertake inside the United States.
Is the United States Preparing for a War with Drug Cartels and Transnational Criminal Gangs? (The Soufan Center)
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