President Donald Trump and Defense Secretary Pete HegsethThe United States is now formally engaged in a “noninternational armed conflict” with drug cartels, which the Trump administration has designated as “unlawful combatants” and “nonstate armed groups,” according to a confidential notice delivered to members of Congress this week. The administration argues these strikes were performed in defense of national security against cartels previously labeled as foreign terrorist organizations (FTOs). In the notice, the administration cites the “cumulative effects of these hostile acts” against U.S. citizens and interests to justify the use of military force. READ: Trump Seizes On Shutdown For Federal Downsizing, Eyes ‘Political Scam’ AgenciesPlease make a small donation to the Tampa Free Press to help sustain independent journalism. Sign up: Subscribe to our free newsletter for a curated selection of top stories delivered straight to your inbox.