U.S. Homeland Security chief flags cartel influence in Mexico while praising Sheinbaum partnership

In a border interview, Secretary of Homeland Security Markwayne Mullin warned that cartel money reaches "some very high-ranking places" in Mexico, describing the corruption as a persistent obstacle. He highlighted a "good partnership" with President Claudia Sheinbaum, arguing that joint action is essential to defeat what he termed terrorist cartels operating across the border. DEA Administrator Terrance Cole had earlier labeled the Mexican government and cartels as "one in the same," a statement Sheinbaum called a "very unfortunate" political remark lacking evidence.

The piece references U.S. prosecutions of former Sinaloa Governor Rubén Rocha and the 2023 conviction of former security secretary Genaro García Luna, underscoring the depth of cartel infiltration. It also cites recent DEA successes, including seizures of millions of fentanyl doses and millions of pills, and notes a July sanctions sweep targeting the Jalisco New Generation Cartel. While acknowledging U.S. pressure, the article argues that lasting change depends on Mexico’s ability to purge corruption and protect institutions. Ultimately, the author urges Mexico to prove its government is stronger than the cartels.