U.S. and Mexico Respond to the Killing of CJNG Leader El Mencho

On February 22, 2026, Mexican military forces killed Nemesio “El Mencho” Oseguera Cervantes, the leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), during a military operation in Tapalpa, Jalisco. The operation was the culmination of extensive intelligence work, including cooperation with U.S. agencies, which helped locate Oseguera. Defense Minister Ricardo Trevilla Trejo reported that the military engaged in a violent confrontation with Oseguera and his security team, resulting in multiple casualties, including the deaths of Oseguera and two of his bodyguards en route to a hospital.

How Mexico found ‘El Mencho,’ according to the ArmyFrom Trump to Leavitt to Johnson: How US officials responded to El Mencho’s killing‘The people of Mexico should be very proud of our armed forces and the security cabinet we have’: Monday’s mañanera recappedHere’s what to know about ‘El Mencho’ and the cartel he createdIsn’t this what we asked for?

Following the operation, U.S. President Donald Trump called for Mexico to intensify its efforts against drug cartels, emphasizing the need for stronger action against criminal organizations. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt noted that the U.S. had provided intelligence support for the operation, highlighting Oseguera's status as a significant target due to his role in fentanyl trafficking. U.S. Ambassador to Mexico Ron Johnson commended the Mexican government for its professionalism in the operation, while Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau expressed that the killing of El Mencho was a positive development for both nations.

From Trump to Leavitt to Johnson: How US officials responded to El Mencho’s killing

President Claudia Sheinbaum confirmed that the operation was conducted solely by Mexican forces, asserting that U.S. military personnel did not participate. She emphasized the importance of maintaining Mexico's sovereignty and reiterated that cooperation with the U.S. would not involve foreign troops on Mexican soil. Sheinbaum also acknowledged the sacrifices made by Mexican security personnel during the operation and expressed condolences to their families.

From Trump to Leavitt to Johnson: How US officials responded to El Mencho’s killing‘The people of Mexico should be very proud of our armed forces and the security cabinet we have’: Monday’s mañanera recappedHow Mexico found ‘El Mencho,’ according to the ArmyIsn’t this what we asked for?

In the wake of El Mencho's death, the CJNG launched retaliatory attacks, leading to violence across multiple states in Mexico. In response, the Mexican government established a command center for national coordination and deployed an additional 2,500 federal troops to Jalisco to enhance security. Trevilla reported that the CJNG had set up narco-blockades and offered bounties for the killing of soldiers, indicating a significant escalation in violence following the operation.

Isn’t this what we asked for?

Despite the government's assertions of success, there are concerns regarding the potential for increased violence and instability within the CJNG following El Mencho's death. Security analysts predict that the power vacuum could lead to further fragmentation and conflict among rival factions. Critics have also raised questions about the preparedness of the Mexican state to handle the aftermath of such a high-profile operation, citing the violent responses from the cartel as evidence of ongoing challenges in combating organized crime.

Here’s what to know about ‘El Mencho’ and the cartel he created

The killing of El Mencho marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing struggle against the CJNG, but experts warn that the cartel's extensive network and resources may allow it to adapt and continue its operations. The Mexican government is expected to remain vigilant in the face of potential retaliatory violence and to continue its collaboration with U.S. authorities in addressing the broader issues of drug trafficking and organized crime.

Here’s what to know about ‘El Mencho’ and the cartel he created

• “Mexico must step up their effort on Cartels and Drugs!” — Donald Trump, U.S. President

From Trump to Leavitt to Johnson: How US officials responded to El Mencho’s killing

• “This operation underscores a clear reality: criminal organizations that poison our people and threaten our nations will be held responsible.” — Ron Johnson, U.S. Ambassador to Mexico

From Trump to Leavitt to Johnson: How US officials responded to El Mencho’s killing

• “Last May, Sheinbaum said she told Trump: “We can collaborate, we can work together, but you in your territory and us in ours.” — Claudia Sheinbaum, President of Mexico

From Trump to Leavitt to Johnson: How US officials responded to El Mencho’s killing

• “The good guys are stronger than the bad guys.” — Christopher Landau, Deputy Secretary of State

From Trump to Leavitt to Johnson: How US officials responded to El Mencho’s killing

There are discrepancies regarding the number of casualties during the operation, with reports indicating that more than 60 individuals, including National Guard members and CJNG operatives, were killed in the aftermath. Additionally, while the Mexican government asserts that U.S. forces did not participate in the operation, some U.S. officials have indicated that intelligence support was critical to its success.

‘The people of Mexico should be very proud of our armed forces and the security cabinet we have’: Monday’s mañanera recapped