The White House credited President Donald Trump’s anti-cartel policies for the operation that led to the death of Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, known as “El Mencho,” leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel.
White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said in an interview that the mission was supported by the United States and would not have taken place without Trump’s leadership.
Leavitt added that the administration has been pressuring the government of Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum to intensify efforts against drug trafficking.
“We are coordinating and cooperating and pushing the Mexican government to do more to end the scourge of deadly drugs coming through our United States southern border,” she said.
Related: Trump: Mexico Must “Step Up” Action on Cartels Following ‘El Mencho’ Death
Leavitt also noted that in February 2025, Trump signed an executive order designating the Jalisco New Generation Cartel, or CJNG, as a Foreign Terrorist Organization.
Addressing concerns following roadblocks and attacks reported in Mexico over the weekend, Leavitt said there were no known reports of Americans being harmed.
“The Mexican drug cartels know not to lay a finger on a single American or they will pay severe consequences under this president. And they already are,” she said.
