The recent death of drug kingpin Ruben 'Nemesio' Oseguera Cervantes, known as 'El Mencho,' during a Mexican military operation marks a significant turning point in the fight against the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG). This operation, occurring in Tapalpa, Mexico, was facilitated by an aggressive, over-year-long strategy initiated by the Trump administration aimed at the 'total elimination' of such criminal organizations. The U.S. government's groundwork played a crucial role in this outcome, showcasing international cooperation in addressing the drug crisis affecting both nations.

The backdrop of this development is Trump's executive order issued on his first day in office, which called for designating various drug cartels, including the CJNG, as foreign terrorist organizations (FTOs). This designation allowed for enhanced military-grade surveillance and significant legal actions against these groups, unlocking resources previously unavailable to combat the growing influence of drug trafficking across the United States. The CJNG, although often overshadowed by other criminal organizations like MS-13, has been noted for its extensive reach across almost all 50 states in the U.S., presenting a serious public health and safety challenge.

The implications of El Mencho’s death extend beyond immediate operational impacts on CJNG. It raises questions about the future leadership and structure of the cartel, and whether this 'total elimination' strategy can be sustained in the long term. There are concerns that eliminating high-profile leaders may not substantially disrupt the cartel's operations, but rather lead to a succession of new leaders vying for power. As the U.S. and Mexico continue their collaborative efforts to combat drug trafficking, the effectiveness of such strategies will be critical in shaping future policies and interventions.