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USA Today
4 days ago
- Politics
- USA Today
New House cartel task force wants intel agencies to target fentanyl trade
New House cartel task force wants intel agencies to target fentanyl trade The U.S. intelligence community said drug cartels were responsible for more than 52,000 fatal drug overdoses in the space of 12 months. Show Caption Hide Caption How fentanyl reaches the US and the role of Trump's China tariffs US President Donald Trump has imposed new tariffs on Chinese goods, citing Beijing's failure to stop the export of chemicals used to produce fentanyl. unbranded - Newsworthy The new task force was created by the House Intelligence Committee in a rare show of bipartisanship. 'The United States cannot allow Mexico, our neighbor and largest trading partner, to devolve into a failed narco-state run by violent cartels,' Rep. Dan Crenshaw, R-Tx., said. Mexico's cooperation in the fight against fentanyl traffickers is one element of Trump's ongoing trade war. WASHINGTON – In a rare moment of congressional bipartisanship, Republicans and Democrats on June 4 announced a new Cartel Task Force to best weaponize U.S. spies and intelligence analysts against Mexican fentanyl trafficking and human smuggling organizations. The task force will be run through the House Intelligence Committee and led by Rep. Dan Crenshaw, R-Texas. The task force will hold hearings on how to improve intelligence collection against drug cartels, and conduct site visits for on-the-ground insight into the U.S. fight against fentanyl and migrant smugglings, Crenshaw said. The Cartel Task Force is an 'actionable response' to the Office of the Director of National Intelligence's 2025 Annual Threat Assessment, said committee chairman Rep. Rick Crawford, R-Ark. In that assessment, the ODNI highlighted smuggling and drug cartels – and the fentanyl crisis in particular – as perhaps the top threat to U.S. security. 'Terrorist insurgency' 'Cartels are largely responsible for the more than 52,000 U.S. deaths from synthetic opioids in the 12 months ending in October 2024 and helped facilitate the nearly three million illegal migrant arrivals in 2024, straining resources and putting U.S. communities at risk,' the ODNI said in its report released March 11. More: Blue Lotus, Four Horsemen, Hydra and Pelican Bones: How the US fights the fentanyl crisis 'The United States cannot allow Mexico, our neighbor and largest trading partner, to devolve into a failed narco-state run by violent cartels,' Crenshaw said in a statement. 'The situation in Mexico has escalated from a drug war to a full-scale terrorist insurgency.' Mexican officials including President Claudia Sheinbaum have denied the cartels constitute any kind of insurgency but have pledged to work closely with Trump in fighting them. In a lengthy X post in February, Sheinbaum said her administration had seized more than 40 tons of drugs, including 20 million doses of fentanyl, since taking office in October. 'What we heard from the IC leaders in our worldwide threats hearing earlier this year tells us that this is an important endeavor,' Crawford told USA TODAY, referring to the U.S. intelligence community. Members of the House Intelligence Committee, with special security clearances, have 'unique access that other committees don't have, that can inform policy and make recommendations' to the full Congress, he said. Crenshaw said the task force will also look at ways the U.S. and Mexico can work more closely together. 'Together, we will develop actionable, integrated solutions to neutralize this evolving threat and safeguard American lives,' he said. Ranking Democratic Rep. Jim Himes of Connecticut praised the bipartisan nature of the task force and said it would 'propose concrete solutions to help protect American lives and interests.' Mexico's top cartels The two main Mexican trafficking organizations are the Sinaloa and Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG) cartels, and U.S. law enforcement and intelligence officials say both have tentacles that reach deep into the United States and around the world. Besides narcotics trafficking, Sinaloa, CJNG and other groups are also involved in human trafficking, the arms trade and 'other illegal and destabilizing activities,' the ODNI report said. More: Koi fish, bananas and puppies: the ingenious ways smugglers bring illegal drugs into the US Both the Senate and House intelligence committees held hearings on the annual worldwide threat assessment earlier this year. "For the first time, the annual threat assessment lists foreign illicit drug actors as the very first threat to our country," including Mexican cartels and Chinese chemical manufacturers, said Sen. Tom Cotton, R-Ark., chairman of the Senate Intelligence Committee. President Donald Trump campaigned on taking a more aggressive stance against Mexican cartels and the Chinese groups supplying them with precursor chemicals to manufacture fentanyl, which has killed more Americans than any other drug by far. Mexico's cooperation in the fight against fentanyl traffickers is one element of Trump's ongoing trade war. With support from some lawmakers including Crenshaw, Trump has also declared Mexican cartels terrorist organizations -- and some have suggested Washington should send the U.S. military to kill cartel leaders on their own turf.
Los Angeles Times
25-02-2025
- Los Angeles Times
In the Land of the Blue Lotus: Planning a Honeymoon in Thailand
Thailand, known as the land of the Blue Lotus (the national flower), has long been one of the top honeymoon destinations in the world. In recent months, however, companies like the The Honeymoon BFF Travel Firm are seeing an uptick in Thailand destination requests. 'With the popularity of shows like The White Lotus Season 3, which featured the luxurious setting of Thailand at the Four Seasons Resort in Koh Samui, many couples are now inspired to explore the stunning resorts and picturesque landscapes shown on screen,' says Honeymoon BFF president Meredith Heim-Zeigler. 'The country's diverse offerings cater to all types of honeymooners—whether you're seeking a relaxing beach escape or an adventurous cultural experience.' With a perfect combination of beautiful beaches, rich culture, ancient architecture and bustling city life, the country has it all for newlyweds. Thailand is famous for its warm hospitality, world-class resorts and diverse landscapes that cater to every couple's preference. 'A growing trend in Thailand honeymoon planning is the desire for more unique, immersive experiences,' explains Heim-Zeigler. According to her this includes things like private beach picnics, boat tours, and stays in some of the many off-the-beaten path locations far away from the tourist crowds. Thai food is another highlight, where couples can indulge in rich flavors, fresh seafood and dishes that go far beyond the standard menus found in the United States. A trip to Thailand also provides the opportunity to try exotic tropical fruits like dragon fruit and mangosteen. Thailand has luxury beach resorts, secluded jungle retreats and bustling cities filled with history and culture. Whether you prefer a private pool villa in Koh Samui or an overwater bungalow in Phuket, Thailand has the some of the most romantic accommodations in the world, with options for every budget. The cool season from November to February is the best time to visit Thailand. However, this is also peak season so book early and be prepared to pay more for flights and hotels. For a truly magical experience if it's in your budget, visit in November during the Loy Krathong festival. This is when the Loy Krathong festival is celebrated throughout Thailand over a three day period and thousands of floating lanterns fill the sky. If you want fewer crowds and lower prices, consider the shoulder season in March and April. It's best to avoid the rainy season from May to October when heavy monsoon rains can impact travel plans and make for a put a damper on the enchanting experience you're looking for. Located in Phuket's tropical hills to the north, Trisara is a luxurious beach resort facing the Andaman Sea. Accommodations are made up of an intimate group of pool suites and villas, each with 180 degree ocean views and total privacy. Spacious and richly appointed, these villas are surrounded by beautifully managed old growth forest. Trisara's private residential pool villas are a slice of tropical heaven, and each villa having its own private garden for relaxation and meditation. Just off the stunning beach is Koh Weao, a beautiful rock formation with surrounding coral reef that can be explored via watersports like kayaking and snorkeling. Other activities include the local roots market, which connects guests to local farmers and artisans, and private Thai cooking classes. Tel: +66 76 683 320 Email: reservations@ Set on the idyllic island of Koh Yao Noi, Six Senses offers a luxurious hideaway in Phang Nga Bay. The resort features 56 pool villas situated on a hillside, blending seamlessly into the surroundings and offering spectacular views of the limestone karsts or tropical forest. Each villa is tastefully appointed with modern amenities for comfort and privacy. Dining at Six Senses Koh Yao Noi celebrates Thailand's culinary heritage with venues such as the multi-level Living Room, the Hilltop for casual dining and drinks and Nithan for authentic Thai cuisine. Guests can unwind with spa treatments and yoga, or explore the island's beaches, fish farms, coconut plantations and rubber tree groves. Tel: +66 7641 8500 Email: reservations-yaonoi@ Situated on a private peninsula over the Andaman Sea, Amanpuri is the world famous Aman hotel chain's flagship property, a secluded haven in a lush tropical garden. The resort comprises elegant pavilions and villas, each designed in the ancient Ayutthayan style to blend seamlessly into the surroundings. Guests can dine exceptionally at Nama, a multi-level Japanese restaurant by Kengo Kuma, where you can enjoy fresh negi toro rolls, iced sashimi moriawase and black miso cod at an omakase counter with views of the Andaman Sea. The resort offers a range of water activities, as well as a hollistic wellness center that offers options for fitness as well as massage and meditation. Tel: 1-833-654-AMAN Email: reservations@
