Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum has accused far-right sectors in the United States of sabotaging U.S.-Mexico relations, while distancing President Donald Trump from the tensions. Speaking at a press conference on Monday, Sheinbaum claimed that ideological opposition from the far right, rather than Trump himself, was driving the strained relationship. The remarks followed a weekend rally where Sheinbaum denounced alleged U.S. interference in Mexico's affairs, stating, 'Who decides in Mexico, foreign agencies or the people?' She emphasized her government's commitment to defending Mexico's sovereignty and independence.
Background and Context
Relations between the two nations have deteriorated since Trump's second term began in January, with disputes over tariffs, immigration, and drug cartel operations. Tensions escalated in April when the U.S. Department of Justice indicted 10 Mexican officials, including Sinaloa Governor Ruben Rocha of Sheinbaum's Morena party, for alleged ties to drug trafficking. Sheinbaum has defended Rocha, calling the indictments politically motivated and aimed at undermining her government.
Domestic and Diplomatic Reactions
Sheinbaum's rhetoric has intensified amid rising U.S. pressure on Mexico to crack down on cartels. The U.S. has accused Mexican officials of enabling cartel operations, while Mexico's congress recently approved a constitutional amendment allowing for the annulment of elections in cases of foreign interference. Opposition leaders have criticized the legislation as a potential tool to manipulate elections. Despite the diplomatic friction, Sheinbaum's approval rating remains high at 69%, according to a recent poll by El Financiero.
U.S. Operations in Mexico
U.S. involvement in Mexico has expanded, including support for Mexico's assassination of cartel leader Nemesio 'El Mencho' Oseguera Cervantes in February. The U.S. State Department has also initiated a review of all 53 Mexican consulates in the U.S., further straining relations. Sheinbaum's government has walked a delicate line between defiant rhetoric and concessions to Washington, balancing domestic support with international diplomacy.