Mexico faces a critical security conundrum: how to diminish the overwhelming influence of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG) without triggering a spiral of violence that would harm civilians across various regions. The latest report from Lantia Intelligence highlights the cartel's extensive but uneven territorial control in the country; while dominant in some states, in others their presence is merely majority, indicating a complex national landscape characterized by fierce rivalries with numerous local gangs.

The CJNG's growth has been fueled by a flexible strategy that does not always rely on brute force; rather, the cartel often seeks to co-opt, negotiate with, or absorb local organizations, demonstrating remarkable adaptability to a variety of environments and extreme conditions. This has allowed the CJNG to solidify its power base in key areas like Jalisco, where it has established robust financial networks and entrenched municipal collusion, complicating efforts for state security forces to gain the upper hand.

As Mexico debates its approach to confronting the CJNG, officials must tread carefully to avoid significant civilian casualties that could arise from a direct confrontation. The nuanced dynamics of the cartel's engagement with local communities and its ability to instigate violence against civilians make this a delicate issue, calling for thoughtful strategies that prioritize both security and the protection of innocent lives.