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Abbott urges Texans to 'stay alert' amid chaos between US, Mexican drug cartels

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23.02.2026

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Abbott urges Texans to ‘stay alert’ amid chaos between US, Mexican drug cartels

AUSTIN (KXAN) — Texas Gov. Greg Abbott (R) is urging residents to stay alert for travel warnings from the Department of State amid the ongoing chaos in Mexico following Sunday’s killing of infamous drug lord Nemesio ‘El Mencho’ Oseguera Cervantes, of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel.

The Mexican army killed the drug lord during an operation to capture him, according to a report from the Associated Press. El Mencho was the Mexican government’s “biggest prize yet” to show the Trump administration its efforts to crack down on the cartels. 

Videos on social media showed smoke pluming over the city of Puerto Vallarta in Jalisco, and according to the AP, people were sprinting through the airport of the state’s capital in panic.

The Austin airport said on its social media page: “While Global Entry is temporarily unavailable at AUS, PreCheck remains available.” The airport also encouraged travelers to arrive 2.5 hours before their flights’ departures.

In a Sunday press release, Abbott said that Texans’ safety is his top priority, “whether they are here at home or traveling abroad.” 

“I urge all Texans in Mexico to follow the guidance of U.S. officials, stay alert, and ensure they are in contact with the U.S. Embassy or nearest U.S. Consulate,” Abbott said. “Situations on the ground can change quickly, and staying informed can save lives.” 

Officials provided a safety guide including the advice below, per the release.

Heed Federal Warnings: Monitor travel advisories and security alerts issued by the U.S. Department of State and local U.S. Embassy offices. 

Texans needing help are encouraged to call: U.S. Department of State from outside the U.S.: 1-202-501-4444 U.S. Department of State from inside the U.S. and Canada: 1-888-407-4747 Texas Fusion Center: 1-844-927-0521

U.S. Department of State from outside the U.S.: 1-202-501-4444

U.S. Department of State from inside the U.S. and Canada: 1-888-407-4747

Texas Fusion Center: 1-844-927-0521

Register with the U.S. Embassy: Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive real-time alerts and make it easier for the U.S. government to assist in an emergency. 

Maintain contact with family: Keep family and friends informed of your location and travel plans, and establish regular check-ins.

Avoid high-risk areas: Do not travel to regions under active security alerts or where violence is occurring.

Follow local and federal instructions: If a shelter-in-place or travel restriction is issued by authorities, follow those instructions immediately. The release explained to seek shelter and minimize unnecessary movements.

Prepare for emergencies: Keep copies of important documents, emergency contact numbers for the U.S. Embassy or nearest Consulate, and ensure you have a reliable source of communication.

Copyright 2026 Nexstar Media Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

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