This October 10, the head of the Pentagon announced the formation of a new operational force that will expand the actions of the government of Donald Trump in his fight against drug cartels.
According to Secretary of War Pete Hegseth, this group aims to “end drug cartels and maintain security in the United States.”
This new unit will join various operations carried out by the US as part of its declared fight against drug trafficking, including the deployment of vehicles naval attacks in the Caribbean Sea and the destruction of alleged drug boats coming from Venezuela.
The US Southern Command explained that this group will be in charge of the Second Marine Expeditionary Force (II MEF), with the capacity to carry out operations abroad.
“The II MEF will synchronize and increase counternarcotics efforts throughout the Western Hemisphere. By doing so, we improve our ability to detect, dismantle and dismantle illicit trafficking networks with greater speed and depth,” reported the Southern Command.
It is still unknown whether this unit will have special powers or duties, although Donald Trump has hinted that, as part of his efforts against the cartels, contemplates attacking key drug trafficking points within Venezuela.
Every member of our Joint Force deserves clean, comfortable and safe housing.
That is why we are announcing the new Barracks Task Force, which is charged with developing a Department-wide barracks investment plan. pic.twitter.com/lk81bLP5M0
—Secretary of War Pete Hegseth (@SecWar) October 9, 2025
For his part, Calvert Worth, who could lead the force, stated that, At least for now, the focus will be on maritime operations.
“This is primarily a maritime initiative, and our team will leverage maritime patrols, aerial surveillance, precision and intelligence sharing to combat illicit trafficking”Worth indicated.
Read also: “They will be forced to do it”: Trump’s warning about drug cartels