The United States Department of State has announced the designation of several international cartels as Foreign Terrorist Organizations (FTOs) and Specially Designated Global Terrorists (SDGTs). The designated groups include Tren de Aragua (TdA), Mara Salvatrucha (MS-13), Cártel de Sinaloa, Cártel de Jalisco Nueva Generación (CJNG), Cártel del Noreste (CDN), La Nueva Familia Michoacana (LNFM), Cártel de Golfo (CDG), and Cárteles Unidos (CU).
Tren de Aragua, originating in Venezuela, operates across South America and has been involved in kidnappings, extortion, and violence against U.S. law enforcement. MS-13, with roots in Los Angeles but now active primarily in Central America, engages in violent acts including assassinations and use of IEDs.
Cártel de Sinaloa is recognized as a major drug trafficking organization responsible for producing and smuggling fentanyl to the United States. CJNG is known for its extensive criminal activities across Mexico and other continents. CDN, previously known as Los Zetas, operates in northeastern Mexico and is involved in various illicit activities. LNFM continues operations from its base on the Pacific coast of Mexico, using violence to control territories.
CDG is active in northeast Mexico with similar criminal involvements. CU formed through alliances among multiple cartels in Michoacán and has been responsible for numerous casualties.
The designations aim to isolate these entities by denying them access to the U.S. financial system. "Terrorist designations expose and isolate entities and individuals," states the Department of State, "denying them access to the U.S. financial system." These actions are pursuant to section 219 of the Immigration and Nationality Act and Executive Order 13224.
Entities affected by these designations have their properties blocked within U.S. jurisdiction, restricting transactions with U.S. persons. Petitioners seeking removal from the list can refer to the Department’s Delisting Guidance page.
