After the elimination of the head of the CJNG cartel, authorities face escalating violence as the country prepares to co-host the World Cup
The wave of violence caused by the killing of Mexican drug lord, known as "El Mencho", could affect the organization of the World Cup in soccer, which will take place from June 11 to July 19, 2026 in the United States, Mexico and Canada.
"El Menço" led the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), one of the most powerful and violent criminal organizations in Mexico. Authorities were expected to face a harsh response after his killing, but according to Sky News reporting, the level of violence in various areas of the country appears to have exceeded initial expectations.
The situation is currently calmer, but there are no clear signs that tensions will ease in a sustainable way. According to the analysis cited by Sky News, cartels usually react in three ways after such strikes: first, with a show of force to deter further operations by the authorities; second, with internal power struggles or turf wars against rival groups; and third, with organized attacks against the state and security forces.
Sky News journalist Stuart Ramsay points out that a third escalation would be much more structured than recent episodes of violence and would pose serious concerns for the government.

The CJNG, along with the Sinaloa cartel, is considered among the main producers of illegal drugs, including fentanyl, a synthetic opioid that is produced mainly in Mexico and trafficked to the United States, where it causes thousands of deaths each year.
The elimination of the leader does not necessarily mean the immediate weakening of the cartel. According to reports, the anti-drug war of US President Donald Trump's administration has focused on Colombia, Ecuador, Venezuela and Mexico. After the arrest of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro in January, pressure has increased on Mexican authorities to intensify actions against cartels within their territory.
The death of "El Mencho" is expected to be positively assessed by Washington and may partially ease the pressure on Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum.
However, with the 2026 World Cup approaching and Mexico as co-host, the government needs to ensure stability and security. Otherwise, uncertainty could affect the decision of fans and visitors to travel to the country during the tournament.
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