Hegseth Signals Stronger US Action Targeting Mexican Cartels

Defense chief says the United States will act to defend Americans from cartel violence, while Mexico’s president stresses her country’s sovereignty.

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth speaks during a press briefing at the White House in Washington on Aug. 11, 2025. Madalina Kilroy/The Epoch Times

U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said on Aug. 11 that the government is taking action against Mexican drug cartels and will move to protect the American people.

Hegseth told Fox News journalist Laura Ingraham that defeating the cartels is a priority for the Trump administration.