American Assistance Aimed At Drug Cartels

U.S. and Mexican officials have signed agreements that released the first phase of a major aid package to combat Mexican drug syndicates, reports the Houston Chronicle.

The US$197 million installment includes eight helicopters, four patrol aircraft, communications gear, data processing hardware and software, bulletproof vests and training for Mexican specialists.

None of the aid in the Merida Initiative will be provided in cash. This is intended to minimize corruption, and...