Donald Trump urges America Shield alliance to sanction 24 criminal groups

During a summit held on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly in New York, Donald Trump called on members of the ‘America Shield’ alliance to impose sanctions on 24 criminal organizations operating across the American continent. Comparing these groups to ‘the Islamic State,’ the U.S. President urged partner nations to officially designate these narcoterrorists as common threats to stability.

The alliance, which includes the United States and several right-leaning governments in South America, has agreed to a ‘first joint action’ to combat narcoterrorism. According to a State Department announcement, the coalition intends to implement asset freezes, migration and visa restrictions for members, associates, and supporters, as well as criminal liability for those providing material or professional support to these organizations.

The 24 targeted groups have already faced sanctions from Washington. Notable entities include the Mara Salvatrucha gang from El Salvador, the Tren de Aragua from Venezuela, and various Mexican cartels. While the alliance aims to increase intelligence sharing and judicial police cooperation, Mexico is not a member of the coalition.