**Conflicting Strategies Emerge in U.S.-Mexico Drug Cartel Discussions**

As a delegation from Mexico heads to Washington to finalize a security agreement, tensions rise within the Trump administration regarding the approach to tackling drug trafficking across the border.

Inside the Trump administration, a heated discussion is unfolding about the approach to combatting Mexican drug cartels, with divided opinions on whether to implement military strikes or to pursue cooperation with Mexican authorities. Some U.S. officials advocate for military actions aimed at crippling cartel operations, arguing that a forceful approach is necessary to reduce the drug trade infiltrating the United States. Conversely, others suggest that fostering a stronger alliance with Mexico might provide a more effective and sustainable solution, particularly regarding immigration issues.

Compounding these internal conflicts is the pressure of an impending visit from a high-level Mexican delegation scheduled for Thursday. The primary goal of these talks will be to solidify a security arrangement, which is currently overshadowed by unclear ultimatums issued by U.S. officials demanding the dismantling of cartels or facing significant repercussions.

Insiders have reported that communications from the U.S. have been somewhat ambiguous, creating uncertainty within the Mexican delegation about how to respond satisfactorily to U.S. demands. This lack of clarity has led to a growing sense of unease among Mexican leaders, especially as several cartels have been labeled as foreign terrorist organizations by the State Department.

Sebastian Gorka, a prominent advisor on national security matters in the White House, supports aggressive military interventions against cartels, underscoring the division within the administration on how to best tackle a serious and complex issue while navigating international diplomatic relations.