The White House confirmed that no American casualties have been reported amidst the recent violence in Mexico following the death of a cartel leader, while warning that severe repercussions will follow should US citizens be harmed.
The White House announced on February 24 that there have been no confirmed American casualties resulting from the violence across 20 states in Mexico, which erupted after the death of Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, known as 'El Mencho', leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG). The Biden administration, under Secretary Karoline Leavitt, issued a stern warning to drug cartels regarding the consequences of targeting American citizens, emphasizing that they will face severe ramifications if any harm comes to US nationals.
Leavitt highlighted the cooperation between Mexican authorities and US intelligence that led to the successful operation resulting in ‘El Mencho’s' demise. She noted that this operation could not have been achieved without the leadership of former President Donald Trump, implying a continuity of risk towards US citizens abroad that needs to be managed vigilantly. Her statements reflect a broader geopolitical context in which US-Mexico relations are under scrutiny concerning drug violence and the safety of American nationals in Mexico.
The threats made by the White House underscore the ongoing tensions between the US government and Mexican drug cartels, suggesting a potential shift in how the United States may respond to foreign criminal organizations. The insistence on 'grave consequences' serves as both a deterrent and a warning sign, potentially escalating existing conflicts while placing Mexican authorities under pressure to maintain control of drug violence and protect US interests within their borders.
