Trump’s Tariff Threat Sparks Controversy
Earlier this week, former U.S. President Donald Trump reignited tensions by threatening a 25% tariff on imports from Mexico and Canada if those nations failed to curb illegal immigration and fentanyl smuggling. He further extended his threats to China with a proposed additional 10% tariff. Speaking on Truth Social, Trump claimed that Sheinbaum and Trump had a phone conversation during which Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum agreed to halt migration through Mexico, effectively sealing the southern border. However, Sheinbaum denied such an agreement, clarifying that her government would never support closing borders between Mexico and the United States.
“Each person has their own way of communicating,” Sheinbaum remarked, addressing Trump’s interpretation of their discussion. “We never proposed, nor could we, the closure of the border. That has never been our position, nor will it be.” Despite the heated rhetoric surrounding tariffs, Sheinbaum expressed confidence that no tit-for-tat tariff war would occur.
Constructive Dialogue on Migration and Fentanyl
The phone conversation between Sheinbaum and Trump, described by the Mexican president as “very kind,” focused on ongoing efforts to manage migration and combat fentanyl trafficking. Sheinbaum highlighted Mexico’s initiatives to address migration challenges, including providing aid to Central American nations and migrants within Mexico’s borders. According to Sheinbaum, these measures aim to prevent migrants from reaching the northern border altogether. Trump reportedly acknowledged Mexico’s efforts during the call.
Additionally, Sheinbaum noted that they discussed programs addressing fentanyl addiction and overdose prevention in Mexico. She took the opportunity to bring up the issue of American-made weapons smuggled into Mexico, which are often used by drug cartels. “We emphasized the need to tackle both sides of the issue,” she said, underlining the cross-border nature of these challenges.
Reaffirming Sovereignty Amid Military Intervention Concerns
The conversation between Sheinbaum and Trump also touched on broader geopolitical issues. She urged Trump to lift U.S.-imposed blockades on Cuba and Venezuela, arguing that these sanctions exacerbate migration crises by worsening living conditions. When asked about rumors of a “soft invasion” of Mexico involving U.S. military action against drug cartels, Sheinbaum dismissed the notion as fictional.
“What I rely on is the dialogue I had with President Trump,” she stated, emphasizing her commitment to maintaining Mexico’s sovereignty. “Mexico is a free, independent, and sovereign nation—this principle stands above all else.”
Sheinbaum concluded by reiterating that the discussions with Trump had reassured her of a collaborative, rather than confrontational, future between the two nations. Despite the inflammatory rhetoric surrounding tariffs and border policies, the Mexican president remains optimistic about continued diplomatic engagement.
