Argentina has officially designated the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG) as a terrorist organization, a significant announcement made by President Javier Milei’s office on March 26, 2026. This designation marks Argentina as the first Latin American country to label the cartel in this manner, aligning its stance with previous designations by the United States and Canada.
The move comes in the wake of heightened international efforts to combat organized crime in the Western Hemisphere. According to Milei’s office, the designation is intended to strengthen international cooperation in matters of security and justice, particularly with countries that have already recognized the cartel as a terrorist entity.
The Jalisco New Generation Cartel, founded in 2010 by Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, known as ‘El Mencho’, has been one of the most prominent criminal organizations in Mexico, with extensive connections across various countries. El Mencho was killed in a Mexican military operation on February 22, 2026, which has further escalated the urgency of addressing the cartel’s influence.
By categorizing the CJNG alongside groups such as Hamas and Iran’s Quds Force, Argentina aims to signal its commitment to combating terrorism and organized crime. The designation follows a series of U.S. air strikes in the Caribbean Sea and eastern Pacific Ocean, which resulted in approximately 163 casualties, authorized by former President Donald Trump. These military actions underscore the ongoing conflict against drug trafficking and organized crime in the region.
In a related context, Argentina’s recent vote against a UN resolution condemning the transatlantic slave trade as a crime against humanity has drawn criticism. Only the U.S., Israel, and Argentina opposed the resolution, which was supported by 123 countries. This stance has raised questions about Argentina’s position on international human rights issues.
In response to the cartel designation, Milei’s office stated, “Milei maintains his unwavering conviction to recognize terrorists for what they are.” This reflects a broader commitment to enhancing national and regional security.
As the situation develops, the implications of Argentina’s designation of the CJNG as a terrorist organization may influence future international collaborations against crime and terrorism in Latin America.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding the potential impact of this designation on local and international law enforcement efforts.