White House spokesperson Caroline Levitt urged Americans in Mexico to adhere to State Department guidelines, stating there are currently no reports of injuries, kidnappings, or deaths among US citizens. Levitt emphasized in an interview that drug cartels are aware they cannot harm Americans without facing severe consequences under the current administration, noting that the cartels are paying the price for this stance. She added that the military operation was successful with the support of the United States, crediting the current president’s leadership for its execution.
Following the death of Nemesio Oseguera, known as “El Mencho,” leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel, the Mexican military deployed 10,000 troops in Jalisco state to contain the violence. Oseguera, 59, was killed during a military operation in the Tabala area of Jalisco and died while being airlifted to Mexico City. His death triggered attacks and violence in approximately 20 states.
According to the Mexican government, clashes resulted in the deaths of about 25 security personnel, including members of the National Guard and a prosecutor’s office employee, along with 30 cartel members. Additionally, a woman was killed during the unrest. In Jalisco, armed individuals set up barricades and burned vehicles on major roads. Schools and stores in Guadalajara, the country’s second-largest city, closed their doors, leading to reduced traffic and heightened concerns about escalating instability.
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum announced the removal of roadblocks set up by armed groups. She emphasized that protecting residents is the top priority and asserted that the country is calm and peaceful. Sheinbaum denied the presence of US troops in the operation, stating that only intelligence sharing took place. Oseguera was one of the most wanted individuals by the United States, with a reward of 15 million dollars for information leading to his capture. The Jalisco New Generation Cartel, established in 2009, is considered one of the world’s strongest drug trafficking networks.
