The Trump administration has revoked visas for over 50 Mexican officials as part of a sweeping crackdown on drug cartels and their alleged political allies.
In a dramatic escalation of its anti-narcotics strategy, the U.S. government has rescinded travel visas for at least 50 Mexican politicians and government officials, targeting individuals suspected of ties to drug cartels. The move, confirmed by multiple sources including Reuters, marks one of the most aggressive diplomatic actions taken by the Trump administration in its ongoing war against transnational narcotics trafficking.
Among those affected are high-profile figures such as Baja California Governor Marina del Pilar Ávila, Nogales Mayor Juan Francisco Gim, and former federal deputy Carlos Torres Torres. Most of the visa revocations reportedly involve members of Mexico’s ruling Morena party, sending shockwaves through the country’s political elite.
“This is unprecedented in scale,” said Tony Wayne, former U.S. ambassador to Mexico. “The Trump administration is finding new ways to exert more pressure on Mexico”.
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum expressed concern over the lack of prior consultation, stating that she was not informed before the U.S. took action. She emphasized that the U.S. cited privacy laws in declining to share details about the individuals targeted.
While previous U.S. administrations have used visa revocations to signal disapproval or apply pressure, experts say the current scope reflects a more forceful diplomatic posture. The cancellations are part of a broader strategy that includes military strikes on suspected drug vessels and increased surveillance along the border.
The visa revocations have disrupted travel plans and diplomatic engagements for many officials, underscoring the growing tension between the two nations as they grapple with the complex nexus of politics and organized crime.
Source: Reuters
