Sheinbaum Dismisses Trump’s Threat of Military Strikes in Mexico
Mexico City — Mexico’s President-elect Claudia Sheinbaum has firmly rejected former U.S. President Donald Trump’s suggestion of potential military strikes on Mexican soil, calling the idea “unthinkable” and a breach of national sovereignty. Trump, the Republican nominee for the 2024 U.S. election, recently vowed to target Mexican drug cartels with military force if re-elected—a proposal Sheinbaum labeled “reckless and unacceptable.”
Trump’s Hardline Cartel Remarks
At a Nevada campaign rally, Trump escalated his rhetoric against Mexican cartels, proposing the use of “special forces” and “cyber warfare” to dismantle their operations. “If they’re not going to do it, we will do it for them,” he declared, echoing past calls to designate cartels as terrorist organizations—a move that could justify U.S. intervention.
The remarks sparked immediate backlash from Mexican leaders, including outgoing President Andrés Manuel López Obrador (AMLO), who condemned the statements as “irresponsible.” Sheinbaum, set to take office on October 1, reinforced Mexico’s stance against foreign military interference.
Sheinbaum’s Firm Response: Sovereignty Non-Negotiable
At a press conference, Sheinbaum—a former Mexico City mayor and scientist—asserted Mexico’s right to handle its security challenges independently. “This is not going to happen,” she stated. “Mexico is a sovereign nation, and we will not accept foreign intervention.”
She emphasized the importance of bilateral cooperation under international law, saying, “U.S.-Mexico collaboration must be rooted in mutual respect, not unilateral threats.”
Diplomatic Tensions and U.S.-Mexico Relations
Trump’s comments have reignited concerns over U.S.-Mexico relations, particularly on security and immigration. While the two nations have cooperated under the Mérida Initiative, tensions persist over border enforcement and cartel violence.
U.S. lawmakers, including Senator Bob Menendez (D-N.J.), have warned that Trump’s rhetoric risks destabilizing the region. “Unilateral military action would provoke a severe crisis,” Menendez stated.
Mexico’s Cartel Crisis and Sheinbaum’s Strategy
Mexico faces escalating cartel violence, with groups like the Sinaloa Cartel and CJNG dominating criminal networks. Sheinbaum has pledged to continue AMLO’s “hugs, not bullets” policy, combining social programs with targeted operations against cartel leaders.
Critics argue the approach may fall short as homicides exceed 30,000 annually. Sheinbaum’s ability to curb violence while resisting external pressure will be a key test of her presidency.
What’s Next?
With the U.S. election approaching, Trump’s focus on Mexico may intensify. Sheinbaum must navigate domestic security demands while managing relations with Washington.
Her message remains unwavering: “We are a sovereign nation. Military intervention is a non-starter.”
Stay updated on this developing story with further analysis.
— Reported by NextMinuteNews Mexico Bureau
