Arabic version: الولايات المتحدة تصدر تحذيرات سفر لمواطنيها في المكسيك بعد أعمال العنف
The US government has issued travel warnings for its citizens in Mexico due to widespread violence following the killing of notorious drug cartel leader Nemesio ‘El Mencho’ Oseguera Cervantes. According to The Guardian, the alert advises Americans to shelter in place as US government staff in affected areas are also doing so.
The travel alert specified that while no airports had been closed, roadblocks had disrupted airline operations, leading to the cancellation of most flights from Guadalajara and Puerto Vallarta. Rideshare services in Puerto Vallarta have been suspended, further complicating travel for those in the region. The alert emphasized the importance of keeping family and friends informed about one’s location and well-being.
The wave of violence was triggered by the Mexican government’s successful operation against ‘El Mencho’, who was considered a significant threat due to his role in drug trafficking, particularly of fentanyl into the US. The US government had previously urged Mexico to intensify efforts against cartel networks, and White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt confirmed that the US provided intelligence support during the operation.
In light of the situation, US senators and representatives have been advising their constituents to enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program, which allows the State Department to contact US nationals in case of emergencies abroad. This initiative comes as the US government continues to monitor security conditions in Mexico and provide necessary support to its citizens.
