Trump Accuses Mexico of Being ‘Epicenter’ of Drug Trafficking

Donald Trump accused Mexico on Tuesday, September 22, 2026, of being the «epicenter» of cartel violence and demanded that Claudia Sheinbaum’s government regain control of its territory. The U.S. president made the statement during his address to the United Nations General Assembly (UN) in New York.

What Did Trump Say About Drug Trafficking in Mexico?

Trump stated that it is «unacceptable» for the United States to share a border of approximately 2,000 miles with a territory that, according to his statement, is controlled by enemy cartels.

«Mexico is the epicenter of cartel violence,» the president said during his speech. He then added that Mexico must «regain control of its territory from the hands of the enemies of humanity».

The accusation was part of a speech in which Trump also defended the possible use of military force in Latin America if he considers U.S. interests threatened.

The U.S. president presented cartels as organizations comparable to the Islamic State. He also defended his government’s campaign against vessels flagged for transporting drugs in the Caribbean Sea.

How Did Mexico Respond to U.S. Pressure?

President Claudia Sheinbaum has repeatedly rejected any unilateral operations by U.S. agencies on Mexican territory. Her government maintains that bilateral cooperation must respect national sovereignty.

Mexico’s stance is summarized in the principle of «coordination without subordination.» Sheinbaum has said that both countries can share information and collaborate against crime, but without Mexico being under Washington’s orders.

The president has also accused the United States of possible interference. Her administration has defended a strategy based on intelligence, investigation, institutional strengthening, and addressing the root causes of violence.

What Does the Border Security Conflict Imply?

Trump’s statements escalate political pressure on U.S.-Mexico relations. Both countries share a border of approximately