Argentina designates Jalisco New Generation Cartel as terrorist organization

Argentina Designates Mexican Cartel as Terrorist Organization

President Javier Milei’s office announced that Argentina has designated a Mexico-based criminal organization, the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), as a “terrorist organization”. The move is based on official reports confirming transnational illicit activities and links to other terrorist organizations. This designation strengthens international cooperation in matters of security and justice with countries like the US.

Argentina becomes the first Latin American country to adopt this label, following similar designations made by the US and Canada in February 2025. The CJNG was among an initial group of eight criminal networks labelled “foreign terrorist organizations” by the Trump administration during his presidency.

The designation comes as part of a shift in security policy across the Western Hemisphere, driven in part by the Trump administration’s hardline policies. This shift has led to the expansion of the term “terrorist” to include groups that were previously not considered as such.

According to official reports, the CJNG is involved in transnational illicit activities and has links to other terrorist organizations. The office of President Milei stated that this designation aims to bolster partnerships with countries like the US.

The Jalisco New Generation Cartel is a prominent criminal organization in Mexico, estimated to have established connections with various groups. The move by Argentina follows a trend of increased cooperation between Latin American countries and the US on security matters.

President Javier Milei has forged close relations with his US counterpart, mirroring Trump’s policies in some areas. This includes withdrawing from international organizations and supporting economic initiatives.

Source: Al Jazeera