Former U.S. President Donald Trump recently made headlines by stating that Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum is "too afraid" of drug cartels to accept American military help. During a public address on Sunday, Trump bluntly criticized Sheinbaum for her reluctance to allow U.S. troops to aid in combating the cartel violence plaguing Mexico. “She’s so afraid of the cartels she can’t walk,” he claimed, adding a personal note of respect by calling her a "lovely woman."
This development follows a confirmed phone conversation last month in which Sheinbaum firmly rejected Trump's proposal for increased U.S. military involvement within Mexican borders. According to Fox News, Sheinbaum's response to Trump was resolute: “No, President Trump, our territory is inalienable, sovereignty is inalienable.” She emphasized that while Mexico is open to collaboration and information sharing, it will not accept U.S. military presence on its soil.
The refusal highlights the complex dynamics of U.S.-Mexico relations, particularly on issues of border security and drug trafficking. Since January, following an executive order by Trump, the United States has strengthened its military presence along the U.S.-Mexico border to curb illegal immigration. Trump has also underscored the necessity of American military resources to combat the smuggling of dangerous drugs, especially fentanyl, by cartels across the border.
“They are bad news,” stated Trump, referring to the cartels. He expressed his willingness to assist Mexico, saying, “If Mexico wanted help with the cartels, we would be honored to go in and do it. I told her that I would be honored to go in and do it.” He highlighted the severity of the threat, labeling the cartels as entities trying to "destroy our country" and "evil."
In response to ongoing concerns, U.S. Northern Command has taken action, deploying troops and equipment to the southern border and increasing surveillance flights to monitor for fentanyl trafficking. Moreover, the command seeks expanded authority for U.S. Special Forces to work more closely with Mexican forces during anti-cartel operations.
Taking a firm stance against these criminal organizations, Trump designated several gangs and cartels involved in drug smuggling into the United States as "foreign terrorist organizations" in February. This classification grants law enforcement enhanced tools to disrupt these groups.
The exchange between Trump and Sheinbaum underscores the ongoing debate over the best approach to tackle the cartel problem. While Trump advocates for a more hands-on role by the U.S. military, the Mexican president stands firm on respecting national sovereignty.