President Donald Trump has officially designated South American drug cartels as “unlawful combatants” and declared that the U.S. is engaged in an “armed conflict” with them. This follows military strikes on suspected cartel vessels in the Caribbean, marking a major expansion of presidential war powers.

An internal memo describes drug trafficking as an act of war, authorizing the Pentagon to operate under the law of armed conflict. This move treats cartel members as enemy combatants — a status usually reserved for wartime foes. The memo claims that “force is necessary for self-defense against these groups.”

Experts warn this approach stretches international law and could allow “lethal force or indefinite detention without trial.” Critics argue it bypasses Congress and blurs the line between criminal justice and warfare.

Military actions have already begun: U.S. forces struck three boats in the Caribbean in September, reportedly destroying drug shipments. The operations involved major naval assets, showing the administration’s resolve to treat cartels as military targets.

While Congress has been briefed, lawmakers express concern over executive overreach. Supporters call it national defense; opponents fear it could lead to “prolonged military involvement without clear limits.”