In a bold escalation of the war on drugs, the Trump administration has revoked visas for over 50 Mexican politicians and government officials suspected of ties to drug cartels. Baja California Gov. Marina del Pilar Ávila, one affected, firmly denied any links to organized crime, calling the accusations baseless.
This sweeping action targets members of Mexico's ruling Morena Party under President Claudia Sheinbaum, as well as officials from other parties. It aligns with Trump's zero-tolerance campaign promise, including recent US military strikes on cartel vessels allegedly from Venezuela. Last month, a similar revocation hit Colombian President Gustavo Petro over unrelated protests.
"Visas are a privilege, not a right," a State Department official emphasized, noting revocations stem from violations of US law or actions against national interests.
Mexican officials have reacted with shock and denial, with some acknowledging the visa losses but insisting on their innocence. The move has ignited online debates, with supporters praising the 'America First' approach while critics worry about bilateral strains.
As cartels continue to fuel violence and fentanyl crises, this visa crackdown raises the stakes -- could it force Mexico to purge corrupt elements, or will it backfire on cooperation? What do you think drives real change here?