Trump list of U.S.-designated ‘foreign terrorist organizations’ in Latin America grows to 21
PBS News Hour – Politics — 2026-09-11 09:23:00 — www.pbs.org
Trump Administration’s Terrorist Designation of Latin American Crime Groups Sparks Controversy and Contradictions
The Trump administration has dramatically expanded the use of the “foreign terrorist organization” label, designating 21 Latin American and Caribbean criminal groups under this category. Traditionally reserved for groups like the Islamic State or al-Qaida, this designation is now being applied to money-focused crime rings, with the stated aim of increasing pressure on these organizations and anyone aiding them.
A Shift in U.S. Policy
Trump’s strategy, rolled out in February 2025, marked a significant departure from past U.S. policy. The administration used the new designation as a pretext for the capture of Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro and for dozens of lethal attacks on alleged “narcoterrorist” boats, resulting in more than 200 deaths. The move also prompted countries like Guatemala and Argentina to take similar actions, and led Ecuador to launch joint operations on its own soil.
International Repercussions and Pressure
Mexico, with eight groups on the list, faces intense U.S. pressure to avoid unilateral actions by Trump, particularly following indictments of high-ranking officials in Sinaloa state. The administration’s aggressive approach has not only strained diplomatic relations but also encouraged other Latin American governments to adopt harsher stances against criminal organizations.
Contradictions and Political Fallout
Despite the tough rhetoric, Trump’s approach has revealed notable contradictions. Most strikingly, former Honduras President Juan Orlando Hernández, who was sentenced to 45 years for drug trafficking and accused during his trial of protecting the Sinaloa Cartel, was pardoned by Trump last year and has since returned to Honduras. This move stands in stark contrast to the administration’s stated goal of cracking down on drug-related crime and terrorism.
Conclusion
Trump’s expansion of the “foreign terrorist organization” label to Latin American criminal groups represents a significant shift in U.S. policy, with far-reaching consequences for international relations and regional security. However, the administration’s actions have also exposed inconsistencies, particularly in the selective application of justice and the pardoning of high-profile figures accused of serious crimes. As the region grapples with the fallout, questions remain about the effectiveness and motivations behind Trump’s controversial strategy.