Former President Felipe Calderón of Mexico extended his recognition to the federal forces that participated in the military operation in Tapalpa, Jalisco, which resulted in the death of the prominent drug trafficker Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, commonly known as 'El Mencho'. This acknowledgment comes through a social media post where Calderón, known for his critiques of the current Morena government led by Andrés Manuel López Obrador, highlighted the bravery and dedication of the armed forces. He expressed his condolences for the soldiers who lost their lives protecting Mexico from its enemies, stating, "Honor to the Mexican soldiers who died defending Mexico from its enemies."

In his post, Calderón also shared a message from his wife, Margarita Zavala, a current deputy, who expressed gratitude for those who sacrificed their lives for the country and extended her solidarity to the families of the fallen soldiers. This incident reflects the ongoing struggle against the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), which is linked to the rise of drug violence in Mexico since Calderón's presidency, implying the challenges that remain in combating organized crime within the country.

The operation against 'El Mencho' is significant as it demonstrates the complexities of the Mexican government's strategies against drug cartels and the implications of Calderón’s legacy in the ongoing war on drugs. This confrontation highlights not only the military’s role in combating drug trafficking but also the political discourse surrounding security measures taken by successive administrations in Mexico, especially in light of Calderón’s controversial approach during his presidency.