US agencies ban unauthorized drones at southern border; Hegseth vows to shoot down cartel drones

The Departments of Defense, Transportation, and Homeland Security announced a ban on unauthorized drones operating near the southern border, with Defense Secretary Hegseth vowing to shoot down cartel drones. This marks a formal escalation of US counter-drone posture against cartel activity, though operational details and legal authority remain unclear. The move signals increased militarization of border security and potential for kinetic engagements.