U.S. Arms Trafficking Fuels Cartel Violence in Mexico

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Recent investigations reveal a troubling chain of arms trafficking from the United States into Mexico, significantly bolstering cartel operations. A woman named Fernanda, seeking to acquire military-grade firearms, was caught negotiating a $63,000 deal for AK-47s and Barrett rifles with an undercover agent, as reported by EL PAÍS. According to authorities, between 70% and 90% of firearms in Mexico originate from the U.S., where lax regulations facilitate illegal exports.

In response to escalating violence resulting from this trafficking, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum has pressed the U.S. to take more decisive action. "For the first time, the U.S. government has said they will work together to prevent high-powered weapons from entering Mexico," Sheinbaum stated following negotiations with the Biden administration. Experts highlight a stark imbalance in arms distribution: while Mexico has a single military-operated gun store, the U.S. boasts over 75,000 licensed dealers.

This illicit trade has transformed into a multi-billion dollar industry, feeding violence that claimed nearly 22,000 lives in Mexico last year alone, underscoring the urgent need for cross-border regulatory reform.

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