The United States is signaling stronger action against the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG) after announcing more than $100 million in rewards for information leading to the capture of eight of its leaders.
The U.S. Department of State said it will use “all tools available” to combat drug trafficking and the criminal organization, which has been designated as a terrorist organization by the Trump administration.
During a virtual press conference, Michael Gonzales, deputy assistant secretary in the State Department’s Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs, said the reward announcement will be accompanied by close cooperation with Mexican authorities.
U.S. recognizes Mexico’s cooperation
Gonzales acknowledged the cooperation of Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum in the fight against drug trafficking and praised her public commitment to combating illicit drugs and narcoterrorism.
“We absolutely recognize that President Claudia Sheinbaum has publicly stated that she will combat illicit drugs, make arrests under her leadership in Mexico, and has supported efforts to confront narcoterrorism,” Gonzales said.
However, the official stressed that cooperation alone is not enough and that additional action is needed to address the problems associated with drug trafficking.
He said the United States has a responsibility to implement measures that can help Mexico confront those challenges, while emphasizing that some existing approaches may need to be replaced.
More than $100 million offered for CJNG leaders
The United States announced Wednesday that it would offer rewards totaling more than $100 million for information leading to the capture of eight CJNG leaders.
The announcement represents one of the latest steps by Washington to increase pressure on the organization and its leadership.
The CJNG has been designated as a terrorist organization by the Trump administration.
A tougher approach to Mexico’s cartels
The statements come as cooperation between Mexico and the Trump administration remains a key part of the U.S. government’s strategy against drug trafficking.
During the G7 summit in June, Trump said that “cartels run Mexico” while describing Sheinbaum as a “very good woman, but very scared.”
Gonzales’ comments suggest that Washington intends to maintain cooperation with Mexico while continuing to pursue its own measures against major criminal organizations operating in the region.
