Mexico faces uphill task to appease Trump after cartel boss's killing

With schools still closed, flights cancelled and the charred carcasses of buses smouldering on streets across the country, Mexico was reeling from the cartel backlash prompted by the killing of Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, also known as “El Mencho.” Defense minister Ricardo Trevilla Trejo was moved almost to tears as he offered his condolences to the families of soldiers felled in the operation, saying Mexican military personnel had “fulfilled their mission.” Mexican officials confirmed that 25 members of the national guard were killed, and Donald Trump posted on social media: “Mexico must step up their effort on Cartels and Drugs!” The operation has underlined the intense pressure Trump has put on Mexico, the key role of US support in security efforts, and the continuing challenge for President Claudia Sheinbaum in dealing with her US counterpart.

Oseguera, head of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (JNGC), has been indicted several times in the US since 2017.

Mexico

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