Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum has confirmed that she has rejected the proposal of U.S. military involvement to combat drug cartels, following a constructive discussion with President Donald Trump on security and drug trafficking issues. She emphasized during her daily news briefing that she declined the offers of military action from Trump and categorically ruled out any U.S. military intervention in Mexico, stating that she would seek further clarification if any contradictory statements were made by the U.S.
“We are committed to collaborating while upholding our sovereignty,” Sheinbaum stated. “Our aim is to coordinate efforts without relinquishing authority.” Earlier on the same day, Sheinbaum shared on social media that the conversation between the two leaders centered on security matters respecting Mexico’s sovereignty, combating drug trafficking, as well as enhancing trade and investment relations.
Trump’s recent remarks on Fox News implied that drug cartels were in control in Mexico and hinted at possible U.S. strikes on Mexican soil to combat them. This rhetoric is part of a series of escalating threats to deploy U.S. military forces against drug cartels within Mexico.
In a separate development, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio engaged in discussions with Mexican Foreign Minister Juan Ramón de la Fuente regarding the necessity for increased collaboration to dismantle Mexico’s violent narco-terrorist networks and curb the trafficking of fentanyl and weapons. State Department spokesperson Tommy Pigott confirmed this interaction.
Sheinbaum also mentioned during her press briefing that the trafficking of fentanyl from Mexico to the United States had decreased by approximately 50% over the past year. Additionally, she clarified that she did not touch upon the topic of Cuba with Trump, particularly in light of his statements indicating that Venezuela would cease providing oil or funds to Cuba after the recent events surrounding the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro by U.S. forces in January.
Mexico stands prepared to facilitate communication between Cuba and the United States if such assistance is requested, as indicated by Sheinbaum. She further revealed that Trump inquired about Mexico’s stance on Venezuela, to which she affirmed the country’s opposition to military interventions in alignment with its constitution.
