The Trump administration has implemented economic sanctions against three Mexican nationals and two entities associated with the Jalisco New Generation Cartel, a significant force in Mexico's drug trafficking and fuel theft operations. The cartel, originating from a split with the Sinaloa cartel, has been identified as a major source of illicit fentanyl entering the United States, contributing to a high number of overdose deaths annually. These sanctions freeze assets in the U.S. and ban American citizens from conducting business with the sanctioned individuals and entities. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent emphasized the U.S. government's commitment to disrupting cartel activities to enhance national safety. Additionally, the Mexican government is working to improve traceability in fuel shipments to combat fuel theft and smuggling more effectively.

Economic sanctions were imposed on three Mexican nationals and two entities linked to the Jalisco New Generation Cartel, targeting their drug trafficking and fuel theft operations.

The Jalisco New Generation Cartel, having evolved into a significant and violent force after separating from the Sinaloa cartel, is a primary source of fentanyl entering the United States, which is linked to a multitude of overdose fatalities.

Sanctions enacted by the U.S. Treasury freeze any U.S.-based assets of the involved individuals and entities, and prohibit American citizens from engaging in business with them, aiming to disrupt their criminal enterprises.

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent stated that these measures are part of a broader strategy to combat drug cartels and foreign terrorist organizations, contributing to U.S. national safety.

In response to fuel theft challenges, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum highlighted legislative efforts to enhance traceability of fuel shipments, ensuring accountability for fuel origins and transit.

The White House has associated the issues of fentanyl trafficking with broader geopolitical strategies, including President Trump's tariff plans aimed at Mexico, Canada, and China to curb illegal immigration and drug smuggling.

The sanctions are part of a series of actions by both the Trump and Biden administrations against the Jalisco New Generation Cartel, with a $15 million reward offered for information leading to the capture of its leader, Nemesio Rubén “el Mencho” Oseguera Cervantes.