#2369 - Ed Calderon

Overview

This episode dives deep into the complexities of Mexico's cartel violence, its historical and geopolitical roots, and the intricate relationship between Mexico and the United States. Ed Calderon, a security expert with firsthand experience, provides insights into the cartels' operations, the role of international players like China, and the broader implications for both nations.

Notable Quotes

- The cartels know fentanyl is poison. If they catch you selling it locally, they'll kill you. This poison is meant to export. - Ed Calderon, on the cartels' stance on fentanyl.

- If you start fighting the cartels without the approval of the Mexican government, you will turn criminal organizations into freedom fighters. - Ed Calderon, on the risks of U.S. military intervention in Mexico.

- I came here to work and make a better life for my kid. The American Dream still exists, but it’s under attack from all sides. - Ed Calderon, reflecting on his immigrant experience.

🛠️ The Evolution of Cartel Operations

- Cartels have evolved from gang-like organizations to militarized entities, employing advanced tactics like drone warfare and IEDs.

- The Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG) is now one of the most sophisticated and dangerous cartels, with roots in paramilitary training.

- Cartels are diversifying their income streams, including fuel theft, avocado extortion, and even TikTok recruitment campaigns.

- The introduction of fentanyl into the drug trade was partly due to poor poppy yields in Mexico, with cartels using it to enhance heroin potency.

🌍 Geopolitical Intrigue and International Influence

- China plays a significant role in supplying precursors for fentanyl production and laundering cartel money through its banking systems.

- The U.S. has historically destabilized Mexico through operations like Fast and Furious, where firearms were knowingly funneled to cartels.

- Calderon suggests that China's involvement in Mexico may be part of a broader strategy to destabilize the U.S. through the drug trade.

⚔️ The U.S.-Mexico Relationship and Military Risks

- Calderon warns against U.S. military intervention in Mexico, emphasizing the risk of turning cartels into freedom fighters and destabilizing the region further.

- The arrest of high-profile cartel leaders, like El Mayo Zambada, has often led to more violence and fragmentation rather than resolution.

- The U.S. designation of cartels as terrorist organizations could lead to direct military actions, but Calderon questions the long-term strategy and fallout.

🧬 Cultural and Social Impacts

- Calderon highlights the psychological toll of cartel violence on Mexican society, including the normalization of atrocities like mass graves and public executions.

- He discusses the duality of Mexican identity, where many are taught to hate their Spanish heritage despite its integral role in their culture.

- The influx of American expats into Mexico has sparked tensions, with locals protesting gentrification in cities like Mexico City.

🚪 Immigration and Border Complexities

- Calderon critiques both the Biden administration's open-border policies and the Trump administration's deportation strategies, emphasizing the human cost of both approaches.

- He shares stories of deportees who grew up in the U.S. but were sent to Mexico, unable to speak Spanish or integrate into a country they barely know.

- The cartels exploit the border crisis, using it as a cover for human trafficking and drug smuggling.