Authorities in Mexico are set to investigate the involvement of U.S. personnel in anti-drug operations following a fatal car crash in the northern state of Chihuahua.
President Claudia Sheinbaum said her government was not previously aware that officials from the United States Embassy were participating in operations targeting drug cartels in the region. She noted that authorities would review whether any national security laws were violated.
The crash, which occurred on Sunday, claimed the lives of two U.S. officials and two Mexican officials. The victims were reportedly involved in efforts to dismantle illegal drug laboratories linked to organized crime.
Sheinbaum has requested a meeting between U.S. Ambassador Ronald Johnson and Mexican Foreign Minister Roberto Velasco to clarify the circumstances surrounding the operation.
The presence of foreign personnel in security operations remains a sensitive issue in Mexico. While the government supports intelligence sharing and cooperation, Sheinbaum reiterated that Mexico does not permit foreign troops to operate on its soil.
The incident comes amid differing approaches between both countries on tackling drug cartels. Donald Trump has previously advocated for stronger U.S. military involvement in Mexico’s fight against organized crime , a stance that contrasts with Mexico’s position on sovereignty.
Meanwhile, U.S. embassy officials have not yet publicly commented on the crash or the nature of their involvement.
Mexican authorities confirmed that the local officials killed included a senior investigative agency director and a police officer. The circumstances of the crash, along with the extent of U.S. participation in the operation, are now under official review.
The outcome of the investigation could have broader implications for security cooperation between the two countries, particularly regarding the limits of foreign involvement in domestic operations.
