US sanctions target members of fentanyl-smuggling cartel La Linea

The U.S. has imposed sanctions on five Mexican nationals and two companies linked to La Linea, a drug cartel involved in fentanyl trafficking. This action aims to disrupt a major supply line of fentanyl entering the U.S. Fentanyl is now the deadliest drug in the U.S., with overdose deaths rising significantly in recent years. The Drug Enforcement Administration reports that most fentanyl comes from Mexico and China, with precursor chemicals primarily sourced from China. The Biden administration has intensified efforts against fentanyl traffickers, including charges against key figures and sanctions on Chinese companies. In December 2023, a Counter-Fentanyl Strike Force was established to enhance coordination in combating drug trafficking.