Trump offers US missile strikes to Latin American leaders to target drug cartels

Miami: Former US President Donald Trump on Saturday called on Latin American countries to take military action against drug cartels, offering the support of US missile strikes to target major narcotics traffickers.

During a meeting at his Doral golf club near Miami, Trump addressed a group of right-wing leaders from Latin America and the Caribbean, urging them to confront what he described as the "cancer" of drug cartels with force. He stated, “We’re working with you to do whatever we have to do. You want us to use a missile? We’ll use missiles. They’re extremely accurate.” Trump further illustrated his point by saying, “‘Piu,’ right into the living room,” mimicking the sound of a missile.

Trump also announced the formal launch of a 17-nation "counter cartel" coalition. According to the White House, this coalition represents a commitment from governments across the region to employ "hard power" in response to security threats posed by organized crime.

In his remarks, Trump also commented on the political situation in Cuba, stating that the communist-led country was “in its last moments of life.” He emphasized the need for tough action by US allies to address the impact of organized crime in the region.

The event comes as Trump continues to pursue a confrontational foreign policy, including ongoing tensions with Iran. His statements on Latin America reflect a broader approach aimed at advancing US interests in the Western Hemisphere through assertive measures.