U.S. Arms Trafficking Fuels Mexican Cartel Violence Amid Growing Demand

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In a troubling trend, a significant portion of firearms used by Mexican cartels originates from the United States, where law enforcement experts estimate that between 70% and 90% are sourced. A report by EL PAÍS highlights the intricate web of arms trafficking, which includes U.S. gun dealers and an underground network facilitating illegal sales. A revealing undercover operation recently intercepted a deal involving $63,000 for 20 AK-47s and two Barrett rifles, underscoring the stark reality of weapons crossing the U.S.-Mexico border.

Officials state that while Mexico has only one regulated weapons store operated by the military, the U.S. has over 75,000 licensed gun dealers, making firearms far more accessible. The Mexican government has previously filed lawsuits against American gun manufacturers for negligent business practices, currently pending verdicts in U.S. courts.

Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum has urged Washington for stronger measures against arms trafficking, asserting the need for collaboration. However, skepticism lingers over the U.S. commitment to tackling this crisis, as the arms trade continues to fuel escalating violence in Mexico, with firearms implicated in approximately 70% of homicides.

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