There Is No Military Solution to Mexico’s Cartel Problem
Foreign Policy
by Antonio De Loera-BrustFebruary 25, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
The drug war in Mexico has reached a critical point, with recent events highlighting the ineffectiveness of military solutions against cartels. The killing of Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, known as “El Mencho,” leader of the powerful Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), by Mexican troops under President Claudia Sheinbaum’s orders, underscores the ongoing struggle between the government and organized crime groups. Despite U.S. pressure and intelligence support, the operation has not significantly disrupted the cartel’s operations or reduced violence. Instead, it triggered a violent response from CJNG, resulting in attacks across Mexico that left over 70 dead, including at least 25 members of the National Guard. This chaos has led to widespread disruption in daily life, with roadblocks and stay-at-home orders imposed in affected areas.
The situation highlights the complex political dynamics at play. While Sheinbaum’s decision to target El Mencho aligns with U.S. interests in combating drug trafficking, it also reflects her effort to maintain Mexican sovereignty by avoiding direct U.S. military involvement on Mexican soil. However, this delicate balance has not appeased all parties. Critics, including opposition figures and some U.S. lawmakers, argue that the government’s approach is insufficient and call for further escalation, including potential U.S. intervention. Meanwhile, Sheinbaum faces backlash from those who view the U.S.-led war on drugs as a root cause of Mexico’s insecurity.
The broader implications of this conflict are significant for both countries. The cartels’ ability to adapt and respond violently to military actions suggests that a purely military approach is unlikely to achieve lasting stability. Instead, addressing the root causes of drug violence—such as corruption, economic inequality, and the demand for drugs in the U.S.—is essential for long-term solutions. The current strategy, dominated by military efforts, has only exacerbated instability and drawn criticism from both Mexican and American observers.
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Originally published on Foreign Policy on 2/25/2026