A wave of retaliatory violence has swept across parts of Mexico following the killing of notorious drug cartel leader Nemesio “El Mencho” Oseguera Cervantes on February 22. This has led to several European governments issuing urgent travel warnings and warning citizens to stay vigilant or avoid non-essential trips to affected areas.
The leader of the powerful Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG) died during a Mexican military operation in Jalisco state, provoking immediate reprisals. Many cities descended into chaos with images more reminiscent of a civil war than a drug mafia disputes. Suspected cartel members kitted out in full military gear blocked roads with burning vehicles and buses, torched businesses, and clashed with security forces in at least 20 states. Authorities reported over 60 deaths, including dozens of soldiers and cartel gunmen, with more than 250 blockades cleared nationwide.
Attempts to bring Mexican violence under control
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum stated that “peace, security, and normality” are returning, with troops deployed to restore order. Many areas have seen the acute unrest subside, and airports are largely operational again despite earlier cancellations in Guadalajara and Puerto Vallarta.
However, European foreign ministries are advising caution. The UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) updated its guidance on February 23, warning of serious security incidents in Jalisco, including Guadalajara and the popular resort Puerto Vallarta, and advising against all but essential travel to parts of the state. British nationals in affected zones should minimise movements, follow local shelter-in-place instructions, stay indoors where advised, and exercise extreme caution nationwide. Intercity road travel should occur only during daylight hours.
We advise against all but essential travel to the state of Jalisco.
If you are currently in Jalisco, minimise movements and follow any local shelter‑in‑place instructions.
Updated information about security incidents across Mexico can be found on our travel advice – link below pic.twitter.com/vNYrxIPxGG
— FCDO Travel Advice (@FCDOtravelGovUK) February 23, 2026
Similar alerts have come from other European governments. Belgium, Italy, and France have called on their nationals to avoid unnecessary travel in Jalisco, monitor local media, and shelter in place if already there with risks of highway closures and clashes. The Belgian embassy highlighted potential disruptions, while broader EU sources echo calls for heightened awareness due to the violence’s impact on transport and tourist services.
The Embassy of Belgium in Mexico has urged travellers in the Mexican state of Jalisco to avoid unnecessary journeys following unrest linked to the death of cartel leader Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, known as “El Mencho” https://t.co/PbENyFLytQ#Belga #Mexico #Travel
— Belga News Agency_English (@Belga_English) February 23, 2026
Violence could flare up again at any moment
Popular destinations like Cancun in Quintana Roo have largely got back to normal for now, but violence could flare up again at any moment. Experts warn of potential lingering instability from CJNG internal power struggles or rival cartel rivalries, which could call into question the use of some venues for the 2026 World Cup.
While no full nationwide ban exists, European travellers, especially to western Mexico, are recommended to check official sources like gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/mexico (for the UK) or equivalent national sites before booking or departing. Enrol in consular alert systems, avoid demonstrations or high-risk zones, and follow local authorities closely. The situation remains fluid, but some calm has returned to many tourist sites.
