In his address to Congress on Tuesday, President Donald Trump vowed to take aggressive action against Tren de Aragua, a violent transnational gang originating from Venezuela.
Trump emphasized that his administration has designated the gang, along with other criminal organizations, as a global terrorist threat, signaling a heightened crackdown.
“The days of these criminal organizations terrorizing our communities are over,” Trump declared. “We will hunt them down, dismantle their networks, and protect the American people from their violence.”
Tren de Aragua has expanded its influence across Latin America and into the United States, engaging in drug trafficking, human smuggling, and violent crime. In recent weeks, U.S. authorities have arrested suspected gang members linked to a Texas homicide, reinforcing concerns about their growing presence.
Trump outlined plans for increased law enforcement cooperation with international partners, expanded border security measures, and new sanctions aimed at disrupting the gang’s financial networks. He also called on Congress to pass stricter immigration enforcement policies to prevent further infiltration.
The administration’s aggressive stance underscores its commitment to tackling transnational crime. Trump has made the fight against Tren de Aragua a national security priority.
The Tren de Aragua had been increasingly active along the U.S.-Mexico border, particularly near El Paso, Texas, ahead of President Trump assuming office later this month.