A US Navy P-8 Poseidon surveillance aircraft conducted operations near the coast of Mexico, coinciding with President Donald Trump’s recent threats of military intervention against the country. The aircraft was observed circling off the coast of Tijuana, which is just south of California, before returning to its base at Naval Air Station Whidbey Island in Washington state.
The P-8 Poseidon, known for its advanced surveillance capabilities, departed from Washington and traversed across Oregon and California. It performed multiple circuits just off the Mexican coastline, conducting reconnaissance operations that extended into the Pacific Ocean. This aircraft is equipped with sensors that can detect surface and subsurface targets, enabling it to monitor maritime activities effectively.
Trump has publicly expressed frustration with Mexico’s handling of drug cartels, stating that if the Mexican government fails to act decisively, the US may consider military intervention similar to actions taken in Venezuela. He remarked, “The cartels are running Mexico, whether you like it or not,” highlighting his administration’s increasing focus on drug trafficking across the US-Mexico border.
In November, Trump directed Claudia Sheinbaum, the Mayor of Mexico City, to intensify efforts against narcotics operations. He stated, “Would I launch strikes in Mexico to stop drugs? It’s OK with me,” emphasizing his willingness to take drastic measures to combat drug trafficking.
The situation has drawn international attention, particularly during an emergency meeting of the UN Security Council, where nations voiced their opposition to Trump’s military stance. Critics condemned both his intervention in Venezuela and his comments suggesting potential military actions in other countries, including Colombia and Mexico.
During this meeting, France’s UN envoy articulated concerns regarding violations of international law, stating that such actions undermine the foundation of the international order. Jay Dharmadhikari, deputy French ambassador to the UN, noted that any military operation that disregards established legal principles poses a significant threat to global stability.
In contrast, US envoy Mike Waltz defended Trump’s approach, labeling the operation in Venezuela a “surgical law enforcement operation.” He rebuked the council for criticizing the US’s targeting of Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro, questioning the legitimacy of treating a “narco-terrorist” with the same respect as a democratically elected leader.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres expressed deep concern regarding the US’s military actions, emphasizing the importance of adhering to international law. He indicated that such actions could set a dangerous precedent for international relations moving forward.
As the situation continues to unfold, the implications of military threats and surveillance activities raise critical questions about the future of US-Mexico relations and broader international norms regarding state sovereignty and intervention.
