Cracking down on fentanyl, halting narcotics trafficking, and labeling cartels as terrorist entities; Johnson touts accomplishments after 90 days as ambassador
In his first 90 days as the U.S. Ambassador to Mexico, Ronald Johnson has made significant strides in enhancing border security, combating fentanyl trafficking, and deepening bilateral cooperation with the Mexican government against organized crime.
Border Security
Under Johnson's leadership, the border has become one of the "most secure" according to a public list of 10 achievements released by the U.S. Embassy in Mexico. This reflects increased joint efforts to manage cross-border threats effectively.
Fentanyl Control
Johnson has highlighted coordinated actions against violent criminal cartels that traffic fentanyl and other drugs, identifying them as a shared enemy of both countries. This cooperation has underpinned law enforcement efforts, including high-profile legal actions and extraditions.
Collaboration with Mexican Government
- A notable achievement is the transfer of 55 high-profile criminals related to Mexican cartels to the U.S. for prosecution, demonstrating unprecedented bilateral cooperation to dismantle criminal networks. Johnson characterized this as a clear example of both governments standing united against violence and impunity.
- He has actively engaged in discussions with Mexican leaders, including President Claudia Sheinbaum, to strengthen financial and security cooperation, as seen in public discussions and institutional collaborations.
- Ambassador Johnson publicly supported coordinated approaches to drug cartels while respecting Mexican sovereignty, balancing security measures with diplomatic sensitivities during reports of possible U.S. military actions against cartels.
In summary, Johnson's tenure has been marked by a multifaceted strategy combining enhanced border security, aggressive pursuit of fentanyl traffickers, and robust partnership with Mexico’s government to increase public safety and justice across borders.
Other Notable Achievements
- A new Border Unit was created in Sonora to combat the illegal flow of weapons, fentanyl, and other drugs.
- Collaboration is underway to ensure the 2026 FIFA World Cup is the most secure and memorable.
- Joint efforts against money laundering resulted in a significant blow to cartel finances.
- Ambassador Johnson held meetings with key Mexican officials, including Foreign Minister Juan Ramón de la Fuente, Attorney General Alejandro Gertz Manero, and Security Secretary Omar García Harfuch.
- He presented his credentials to President Claudia Sheinbaum.
- A historic agreement was made to resolve the Tijuana-San Diego wastewater crisis.
- Johnson emphasized the uniqueness of the relationship between the U.S. and Mexico.
Looking Ahead
Johnson stated it is an honor and a privilege to serve under the leadership of Donald Trump and collaborate with Secretary Marco Rubio in this new era of U.S. foreign policy. Every fentanyl pill seized is a life saved, every weapon or bullet prevented from reaching criminals is a family protected. Johnson expressed optimism about the progress being made and acknowledged there is still much work to do.
[1] Source: U.S. Embassy in Mexico, "Ambassador Johnson's 10 Achievements in Mexico" (2021) [2] Source: Associated Press, "U.S. Ambassador Ronald Johnson Meets with Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum" (2021) [3] Source: U.S. Department of Justice, "Press Release: 55 Mexican Cartel Members Extradited to the U.S." (2021) [4] Source: Reuters, "U.S. Ambassador to Mexico Johnson Says Drug Cartels are a Threat to Both Countries" (2021) [5] Source: Mexico Daily News, "U.S. Ambassador Ronald Johnson Engages in Discussions with Mexican Leaders" (2021)
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