Trump urges Americas alliance to sanction 24 cartels as foreign terrorists

President Donald Trump urged member countries of the "Shield of the Americas" alliance to impose sanctions on 24 criminal gangs designated by the US as foreign terrorist organizations, calling them a common threat to stability. Speaking at a summit on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly in New York, Trump said no one had imposed sanctions before his presidency and compared the gangs to the Islamic State. The alliance, including several South American nations, announced a first joint action to combat "narco-terrorism." The measures include freezing assets, visa restrictions, and criminal liability for those providing material support. Targeted groups include Mara Salvatrucha, Tren de Aragua, and Mexican cartels, though Mexico is not part of the alliance. The initiative was launched by Trump in Florida to enhance coordination and intelligence sharing.