Mexico's president, Claudia Sheinbaum, assured on 24/2 that there is no risk for visitors attending the World Cup 2026 matches in cities such as: Mexico City, Monterrey, and Guadalajara. She emphasized that the government has "full security measures" in place for the 13 out of 104 World Cup 2026 matches Mexico will co-host with the United States and Canada. Her remarks came during a press conference where she addressed the situation in Jalisco, a western state recently plagued by violence.

Sheinbaum stated that the situation in Jalisco is gradually returning to normal after the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG) launched retaliatory attacks. These followed the death of their leader, Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, known as "El Mencho". She confirmed that the government has restored traffic on several roads and highways that the CJNG had blocked in the past few days. Additionally, Guadalajara International Airport, the capital of Jalisco state, has resumed operations.

"Our top priority is security and peace. We are working to achieve these goals," President Sheinbaum stated. She had also spoken on 23/2 in Mexico City about the operation that led to El Mencho's death.

Tong thong Mexico Claudia Sheinbaum phat bieu ngay 23/2 tai thu do Mexico City ve chien dich khien tay trum El Mencho thiet mang. Anh: AP

A FIFA spokesperson announced that the organization is closely monitoring the situation in Jalisco and maintaining regular contact with officials. FIFA will continue to follow and support the Mexican government's measures regarding public safety and the restoration of normalcy.

Violence erupted across Mexico after the Mexican army's campaign last weekend to apprehend El Mencho, the CJNG leader. During a shootout, the cartel boss was severely wounded and died en route to the hospital. In retaliation, gunmen loyal to El Mencho launched a series of attacks, blocking nearly 100 major transportation routes and assaulting National Guard bases, particularly in the states of Jalisco and Michoacan. The clashes resulted in the deaths of at least 25 soldiers and 34 gang members.

By Thanh Danh (Reuters, Guardian)