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Security & Strategic Review - April 2026
What next for Mexico after El Mencho killing?
The killing of Mexico’s most powerful drug kingpin, Nemesio ‘El Mencho’ Rubén Oseguera Cervantes, on 22 February served a major blow to the cartel he led, the Cártel Jalisco Nueva Generación (CJNG), and a significant boost for President Claudia Sheinbaum. The Mexican president has come under great pressure from US President Donald Trump to combat drug cartels and, with El Mencho’s death, she has arguably taken out the US’ biggest target. However, in the weeks following the operation, it has been clear that it was not the answer to all of Mexico’s problems. US pressure continues while questions remain as to what El Mencho’s removal means for the CJNG and Mexico’s wider criminal landscape. While an immediate surge in retaliatory violence has since died down, authorities remain on high alert as the path forward looks far from certain.
- What next for Mexico after El Mencho killing?
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