Trump has signed a secret directive authorizing the Pentagon to use US military force against Latin American drug cartels his administration has labeled as terrorist organizations, reports the New York Times.

Citing sources close to the matter, the Times reported that Trump signed an order directing the Pentagon to begin using military force against overseas targets. It's not clear if the order includes language about obtaining Congress' consent, wrote Newsweek.

The Trump administration declared multiple cartels and criminal gangs as FTOs earlier this year, saying the designation was necessary to counter their activities in the U.S., including fentanyl trafficking.

Using the military to target the groups would mark a significant escalation in enforcement—one that could significantly impact relations with two countries: Mexico and Venezuela.

"LATAM has a lot of drugs flowing. We have to protect our country. We're playing a tough game," said President Trump during a press briefing today at The White House.

AFP has reported prior on LTG Paul Vallely's plan to use military force against the Sinaloa Cartel. You can read it here.