In a dramatic twist, Mexican judge Gregorio Salazar has granted the release of Joaquín “El Chapo” Guzmán, the notorious drug lord who has been fighting extradition to the United States. The judge ruled that Guzmán’s extradition is “illegal and violates international law,” signaling a potential setback for U.S. efforts to bring the powerful cartel leader to justice. As Guzmán’s freedom hangs in the balance, questions linger over the true motive behind the judge’s decision and the implications for the ongoing drug war.