On December 15, 2025, President Donald J. Trump signed an Executive Order designating illicit fentanyl and its precursor chemicals as weapons of mass destruction (WMD). This action mandates federal authorities, including the Attorney General and Secretary of State, to pursue aggressive legal and financial actions against those involved in fentanyl trafficking. The designation highlights the serious threat posed by fentanyl, which has become the leading cause of death for Americans aged 18 to 45 and has the potential to be weaponized by organized adversaries.

The executive order directs various federal departments to enhance their response to the fentanyl threat, including the possible deployment of national security resources. President Trump has described illicit fentanyl as a chemical weapon due to its lethality; just two milligrams can be fatal. The administration will employ all necessary measures to dismantle cartels, improve border security, and combat the influx of fentanyl into the United States.

In addition to the WMD designation, the President previously declared a National Emergency at the southern border, designated major cartels as foreign terrorist organizations, and supported legislation like the HALT Fentanyl Act to classify fentanyl-related substances as Schedule I drugs. This comprehensive approach aims to eliminate the dangers posed by fentanyl and protect American families from the devastating effects of this substance. Through these initiatives, the Trump administration seeks to bring a coordinated federal response to a significant public health crisis.

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