**Trump Appoints National Security Advisor; Considers Military Action Against Mexican Cartels**
Donald Trump, the 78-year-old former President and current Republican candidate, has chosen Congressman Michael Waltz from Florida as his National Security Advisor for his anticipated administration set to begin January 20, 2025. Trump, who led the United States from January 2017 to January 2021, has yet to officially confirm this appointment, neither has Waltz.
Michael Waltz, a veteran of U.S. Army Special Forces, has previously been involved in significant political decisions. He supported Trump’s attempts to contest the results of the 2020 election, endorsed a boycott of the 2022 Winter Olympics in Beijing, and has been critical of NATO and U.S. aid to Ukraine.
Waltz is known for his strong stance on combating drug trafficking by Mexican cartels. Alongside fellow Republican Dan Crenshaw, he introduced a resolution proposing the use of U.S. military force against cartels involved in trafficking fentanyl into the U.S. Known as the AUMF Resolution, it targets several cartels, including the Sinaloa and Jalisco New Generation cartels, for their role in the fentanyl crisis that reportedly claims around 80,000 American lives annually.
This potential authorization would allow U.S. forces to act against foreign organizations deemed responsible for trafficking fentanyl, conducting activities that destabilize the Western Hemisphere, or using violence to control territory for illegal purposes.
Controversially, this proposal has sparked debate in Congress, leading to discussions about the implications of militarized interventions in foreign countries.
**Secondary Article: Sheinbaum’s Response to U.S. Security Movements**
In response to Trump’s nomination of a National Security Advisor with a strong stance on Mexican drug cartels, Mexico’s President-elect Claudia Sheinbaum announced intentions to engage with Trump’s transition team. She emphasized the importance of maintaining a dialogue to protect the rights and livelihoods of Mexicans living in the United States.
Sheinbaum aims to ensure coordination and communication, citing Mexican contributions to the U.S. economy. The Mexican government is reportedly preparing to address concerns over Trump’s hardline policies, aiming for strategies that consider both countries’ interests and the cross-border dynamic.
This diplomatic engagement highlights the ongoing complexities in U.S.-Mexico relations, particularly concerning immigration and drug-related violence. As both nations prepare for significant political transitions, the outcomes of these interactions remain critical for regional stability.