Cleared Hot - Episode 373: Stefano Ritondale

Release Date: February 10, 2025

Introduction

In Episode 373 of Cleared Hot, host Andy Stumpf delves deep into the complex world of Mexican cartels, exploring their designation as Foreign Terrorist Organizations (FTOs) and the broader implications of this move. The episode features Stefano Ritondale, Chief Intelligence Officer at Artorias, a civilian intelligence firm specializing in cartel operations and open-source intelligence (OSINT).

Guest Background

Stefano Ritondale brings a wealth of experience to the conversation. A former Army Armor Officer and graduate of the Merchant Marine Academy, Stefano served six years on active duty, including deployments in Operation Inherent Resolve. His transition from active duty to intelligence work with Artorias positions him uniquely to discuss the intricacies of cartel operations and their evolution.

"You have to empower the Mexican government to have full territorial control of their country and maybe reform as best as possible their judiciary and their political process to really clamp down on corruption."
— Stefano Ritondale [05:13]

Military Experience and Transition to Intelligence

Stefano recounts his journey from the Merchant Marine Academy to active duty in the Army, where he served as an aide de camp during Operation Inherent Resolve. This role provided him with firsthand exposure to high-level strategic discussions and the complexities of military operations against non-state actors like cartels.

"I became an aide de camp, deployed as part of Operation Inherent Resolve. Did that for a year."
— Stefano Ritondale [08:39]

After his military service, Stefano joined the reserves and later transitioned to a civilian intelligence role, focusing on Mexican cartels. His hands-on experience in both combat and intelligence has shaped his comprehensive understanding of cartel dynamics.

Designation of Cartels as Foreign Terrorist Organizations (FTOs)

The core of the discussion revolves around the recent designation of Mexican cartels as FTOs under the Trump administration. Stefano elucidates what this designation entails and its potential impact beyond the commonly discussed kinetic military responses.

"The only thing I can really pinpoint directly that an FTO designation would make a difference is the penalties to support a cartel."
— Stefano Ritondale [30:42]

Stefano explains that while the designation imposes stricter penalties for aiding and abetting these organizations, it also opens avenues for the Treasury Department to enforce sanctions more aggressively. However, he cautions that this move alone doesn't address the root causes of cartel power.

Cartel Operations and Territorial Control

A significant portion of the conversation explores how cartels operate, emphasizing their shift from purely transactional models to territorial control. Stefano highlights the brutal infighting within cartels, such as the civil war within the Sinaloa Cartel between the Chapitos and Mayito Flacos factions.

"They are now territorial-centric organizations and they fight each other. And the weaker, sometimes a cartel gets, you know, that's when the split happens and the violence increases, because that's the focus."
— Stefano Ritondale [34:39]

Additionally, Stefano discusses the diversified operations of cartels, including involvement in legitimate businesses like avocado farming and lime production in Michoacán, which has led to violent extortion tactics against local farmers.

"They try to smuggle oil, they'll try to, you know, sell them on their own. They'll try to tap into the oil pipelines or steal that."
— Stefano Ritondale [47:05]

Open Source Intelligence (OSINT) and Social Media Tactics

Stefano introduces Artorias' innovative approach to OSINT, leveraging AI and large language models (LLMs) to aggregate and analyze vast amounts of publicly available data. This enables individuals to access real-time intelligence on global conflicts and organizations directly through a user-friendly app.

"Imagine an OSINT platform that gathers information from left, right, brings in bias and declares bias, but allows an individual through an app to actually look at every piece of OSINT information available and make their own decisions from there."
— Andy Stumpf [04:30]

He further explains how cartels utilize social media platforms like Twitter and Instagram to communicate, intimidate rivals, and carry out terror campaigns. Stefano details the use of specific emojis and symbols as calling cards for different cartel factions, making it easier to track their activities online.

"They leave the cowboy hat, and that's how, you know, oh, okay. Or they'll leave a decapitated head inside of a pizza box."
— Stefano Ritondale [41:05]

US and Mexico Strategic Responses

The discussion shifts to the possible strategic responses the United States could undertake in collaboration with Mexico to combat cartel influence. Stefano emphasizes that merely militarizing the border isn't a sustainable solution and underscores the importance of addressing internal issues within the United States, such as demand for drugs.

"We have a national security interest, but that doesn't sometimes overlap with the Mexicans. The Mexican government's probably number one interest is security and stability for its citizens."
— Stefano Ritondale [75:22]

He argues for a balanced approach that empowers Mexican authorities while simultaneously addressing drug addiction and demand within the U.S., suggesting that a multifaceted strategy is essential for long-term stability.

Advancements in Warfare and AI Integration

Stefano touches upon the evolving nature of warfare, particularly with the integration of AI and drone technology. He speculates on the future of military tactics and the role of AI in intelligence gathering and decision-making processes.

"Our AI does. You would read it. It looks like an intelligence report because how we use the AI and the, and the assessment and all that. [We] provide intelligence in the open source."
— Stefano Ritondale [85:14]

He envisions AI as a force multiplier that can process and analyze information rapidly, providing actionable intelligence without the biases often present in traditional media sources.

Conclusion and Listener Advice

As the episode wraps up, Stefano offers advice to listeners grappling with the complexities of cartel violence and national security. He emphasizes education and awareness as critical tools in understanding and combating the multifaceted issue of cartel influence.

"Demand that we have a serious conversation and find ways that maybe you can help the consumption demand side in this country. That's what I would recommend."
— Stefano Ritondale [107:43]

He encourages citizens to educate themselves, advocate for policy changes that address both supply and demand of illicit drugs, and support initiatives that empower Mexican authorities to regain full territorial control.

Key Takeaways

• Complexity of Cartels: Mexican cartels are not monolithic; they consist of various factions with distinct operational focuses, primarily shifting towards territorial control.

• FTO Designation Impact: Designating cartels as FTOs enhances legal penalties and sanctions but is insufficient alone to dismantle cartel power structures.

• OSINT and Cartel Tracking: Advanced OSINT platforms like Artorias utilize AI to aggregate and analyze data, providing valuable intelligence to both professionals and the general public.

• Strategic Responses: Combating cartels requires a combination of empowering Mexican authorities, addressing drug demand in the U.S., and leveraging technological advancements in intelligence.

• Evolving Warfare: The integration of AI and drone technology is reshaping modern warfare, offering new tools for intelligence and tactical operations.

Notable Quotes

• "They have a heart and mind strategy and a terror campaign."
  — Stefano Ritondale [74:28]

• "The cartels already are militarizing. They don't really care what you think."
  — Stefano Ritondale [84:49]

• "We have a national security interest, but that doesn't sometimes overlap with the Mexicans."
  — Stefano Ritondale [75:22]

• "Knowledge is power, obviously."
  — Stefano Ritondale [107:31]

Final Thoughts

Episode 373 of Cleared Hot offers a comprehensive examination of the evolving landscape of Mexican cartels, their strategic operations, and the multifaceted approaches required to address their influence both in Mexico and the United States. Stefano Ritondale's insights underscore the necessity of a collaborative, informed, and technologically adept response to one of the most pressing security challenges of our time.