A desperate operation, codenamed "Condor Reach," is underway to evacuate Americans stranded in Mexico as violent unrest explodes following the reported death of cartel leader Nemesio Rubén Oseguera Cervantes, known as "El Mencho." The situation has rapidly deteriorated, prompting a response described as “war-zone level” by those on the ground.
Bryan Stern, a combat veteran and founder of the veteran-led nonprofit Grey Bull Rescue, deployed teams Monday to navigate the escalating chaos. He emphasizes that resolving the conflict won’t come from outright victory, but from a political solution – a negotiated settlement, as is often the case in war.
Stern believes the cartels, functioning as both armies and businesses, maintain complete control over the violence. He cautions that the Mexican military faces a deeply entrenched enemy, one that has persisted for decades and won’t be easily dismantled.
The U.S. State Department has issued shelter-in-place orders, and airlines have cancelled flights, leaving many Americans vulnerable. This isn’t a conflict fought by amateurs; Stern stresses the cartels are remarkably sophisticated, well-funded, and meticulously organized.
Intelligence suggests the cartels even operate a formal training academy for hitmen – a chilling testament to their level of preparation and ruthlessness. Their ability to inspire loyalty through brutality and financial incentives further complicates the landscape.
Stern advises those trapped in Mexico to adhere to a simple principle: “Don't leave fun to find fun.” If you are currently safe, remain where you are and avoid unnecessary movement. The roads are currently the most dangerous areas, witnessing the brunt of the violence.
Prioritizing safety over comfort is paramount. An uncomfortable but secure location is far preferable to a comfortable one that exposes you to risk. Stern’s team is actively monitoring the situation, leveraging open-source intelligence – specifically cartel activity on social media platforms like Instagram and Twitter.
Grey Bull Rescue has a proven track record, having executed over 800 missions since 2021. They’ve reportedly saved more than 8,000 American and allied lives from conflict zones across the globe, including Afghanistan, Ukraine, Sudan, and Gaza.
The organization operates through two branches: a donor-funded nonprofit and a for-profit operational arm dedicated to civilian extractions. Their extensive experience and robust intelligence gathering are now focused on bringing Americans home from the escalating crisis in Mexico.
