Mexico investigates Ukraine cartel-member video claims

Reporting and context

Mexico investigates videos alleging cartel members fought in Ukraine

President Claudia Sheinbaum said Mexican authorities are investigating videos that appear to show alleged members of Mexican criminal groups participating in the war between Ukraine and Russia. According to Meridiano de Nayarit, Sheinbaum said on Oct. 8 that there is still no certainty about the footage's authenticity, the identities of the people shown or any possible links to criminal organizations.

The video, which circulated widely on social media, lasts about 24 seconds and appears to show at least nine men in military uniforms in a wooded area. One speaker refers to “La Chapiza” and “Cártel Jalisco Cuatro Letras,” while another says, “Viva México, viva Colombia, viva Panamá.” Those statements prompted online claims that Mexican organized-crime members were involved in the conflict, but the references alone do not establish the participants' identities or affiliations.

Sheinbaum said authorities are examining whether the footage corresponds to the claims made in social-media posts. She also raised the possibility that the participants were recruited by a private company involved in the conflict. Meridiano de Nayarit reported that Mexico had not yet contacted Ukraine's government but could seek communication if investigators determine it is necessary.

The report also cited a September investigation by The Washington Post, which quoted U.S. and Mexican officials about alleged efforts by Mexican criminal groups to obtain battlefield experience involving drones, explosives and communications systems. That background does not identify the people in the new video or confirm that they are cartel members.