US declares major war on cartels, names CJNG as first target

The United States has officially declared a "major war" on drug cartels, with the powerful Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG) designated as the first and primary target. This aggressive stance aligns with President Trump's directive to eliminate narco-terrorist organizations.

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As President Trump said, it is time for America to wage war on the cartels. Well, CJNG, Cártel de Jalisco Nueva Generación, we are coming for you.

Michael Gonzales, the U.S. deputy assistant secretary of state for International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs, announced the initiative, stating, "CJNG, Cártel de Jalisco Nueva Generación, we are coming for you." He characterized the cartel as the most significant, serious, and urgent threat to U.S. interests among all drug cartels operating today.

In a significant move, the State Department has offered more than $100 million in rewards for information that could lead to the arrest and conviction of eight CJNG leaders and their associates. Additionally, visa restrictions have been imposed on 65 individuals connected to the cartel, barring them from entering the United States.

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In a historic action supporting President Trump’s directive to eliminate narco-terrorist cartels, the Department of State announced more than $100 million in reward money for information leading to the arrests and/or convictions of eight leaders and other associates and accomplices of the Cártel de Jalisco Nueva Generación, CJNG.

Gonzales emphasized that the U.S. will work in close partnership with Mexican authorities to pursue, identify, capture, and bring these individuals to justice. The nature of potential U.S. actions will depend on intelligence received and operational feasibility, but the overarching goal is to strengthen bilateral security ties, support law enforcement, and accelerate action against drug production and trafficking.

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We intend to continue working very closely in collaboration with the Mexican authorities to pursue, identify, capture, and bring to justice these individuals.

The CJNG was previously designated as a Foreign Terrorist Organization by the U.S. State Department in February 2025. This intensified focus follows Mexico's capture of CJNG leader Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes in February 2026, who later died from injuries sustained during transport.

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We will absolutely work in partnership with our Mexican counterparts to find the most effective way to achieve our national security interests.