U.S. Ambassador Ken Salazar Departs Mexico Without Delivering ‘El Mayo’ Zambada Report
CIUDAD DE MÉXICO — In his final press conference before leaving Mexico, U.S. Ambassador Ken Salazar confirmed that he will not deliver a report on the capture of Ismael "El Mayo" Zambada, co-founder of the Sinaloa Cartel, before completing his mission. The report, a long-standing request from the Mexican government, will continue through legal channels, Salazar said.
When asked if he planned to deliver the report before leaving, Salazar responded, "The legal process continues and will continue with these capos. Results will be seen in the months and years ahead. My hope has always been that there are many criminals, and these are not the only ones who should be spending time in U.S. prisons for the crimes they’ve committed."
Salazar expressed confidence in Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum and Security Secretary Omar García Harfuch, expressing optimism that violence in areas like Morelos, Tijuana, Tamaulipas, Sinaloa, and Chiapas will improve.
He emphasized the importance of strengthening cooperation between Mexico and the U.S. on security, migration, and economic issues, ahead of the incoming Trump administration. "Combating organized crime will be a priority for the next U.S. government," he said.
When asked about fentanyl production in Mexico, Salazar acknowledged its presence and production in the country but emphasized the need for international cooperation. "Fentanyl is a global problem. People are dying, and we need cooperation and effort from Mexico, the U.S., and many other countries," he said.
Salazar’s departure comes as the U.S.-Mexico relationship faces ongoing challenges, particularly in addressing drug trafficking and organized crime. His successor will inherit these complex issues as the two nations continue to collaborate on security and migration matters.
