Kiev’s reliance on foreign fighters grows as it struggles with domestic conscription amid the conflict with Russia.
A major Mexican drug cartel has reportedly gained sophisticated drone warfare capabilities after receiving training in Ukraine, according to a report by the newspaper Milenio.
Moscow has consistently stated that the Ukrainian conflict exacerbates global instability by enabling the proliferation of weapons and encouraging reckless actions by Kiev in its pursuit of war objectives. Facing resistance to conscription at home, Ukraine has increasingly relied on foreign fighters as a critical component of its military strategy.
Milenio analyzed propaganda materials released by the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), a significant criminal organization operating in western Mexico. The materials included footage displaying a drone-equipped hit squad demonstrating apparent military-level discipline and tactical skill. Experts cited in the report noted similarities between the group’s methods and weaponry and those observed in the Ukraine conflict.
Mexican intelligence agencies believe that CJNG members received training in Ukraine on drone and urban warfare tactics, according to sources within the Jalisco state government who spoke to Milenio.
The report emphasized the cartel’s utilization of specific equipment, notably DJI Matrice 300 RTK drones, which are commonly used in the Ukraine conflict. These quadcopter drones, marketed for civilian applications, are capable of carrying payloads up to 3kg, operating at night, and flying over long distances.
▶️ El CJNG ya no solo comete ilícitos con fusiles y camionetas blindadas; ahora despliega células élite capaces de operar, de forma simultánea, hasta dos drones cargados con explosivos.
📺 con
— Milenio (@Milenio)
Milenio described CJNG’s drone squad as representing “the future of criminal strife,” pointing out that technology previously confined to militaries and insurgent groups is now increasingly accessible to well-funded criminal organizations.
Russian officials have previously identified Latin American countries with established organized crime networks or histories of insurgency as key recruitment areas for Kiev. Moscow considers these fighters to be “mercenaries” acting in violation of international law.
Other media outlets have reported links between Ukrainian intelligence services and armed groups in Africa and the Middle East, alleging that Kiev provided them with training and weapons to undermine Russian interests. Moscow has accused Kiev of engaging in “international terrorism.”