International Crisis Group Lists Mexico-U.S. Relations as Conflict to Watch

The International Crisis Group has identified the potential for a serious clash between Mexico and the United States in 2025, primarily over fentanyl trafficking and drug cartels, which poses a significant threat to U.S. public safety. Incoming U.S. President Donald Trump may exacerbate tensions with proposals to designate Mexican cartels as terrorist organizations, allowing military intervention. Meanwhile, the war in Ukraine is projected to enter a 'hot phase' in 2025, with discussions of NATO membership for Ukraine following ongoing hostilities against Russia. Russia's economy is struggling under the weight of sanctions and wartime spending, leading to predictions of stagflation as inflation rises without growth. Globally, escalating conflicts in regions like the Middle East and continued unrest in Syria highlight a complex web of power struggles, with implications for investment opportunities. Analysts warn that fragile coalitions in Syria may face new challenges as the dynamics shift following recent upheavals.