Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum has rejected the idea of U.S. military involvement in combating drug cartels, following a productive discussion with President Donald Trump regarding security and drug trafficking. During her daily press briefing, Sheinbaum confirmed that she turned down offers of military assistance from Trump and explicitly stated that U.S. military intervention in Mexico was not an option. She emphasized the importance of collaboration while maintaining sovereignty, stating, “We seek coordination without subordination.”
Earlier on the same day, Sheinbaum shared on social media that her conversation with Trump centered on security, respecting Mexico’s sovereignty, combatting drug trafficking, as well as trade and investment. Trump’s recent remarks on Fox News suggested that cartels were in control of Mexico and hinted at possible U.S. military actions against them.
In another development, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio engaged in a conversation with Mexican Foreign Minister Juan Ramón de la Fuente to underscore the necessity of enhanced cooperation to dismantle Mexico’s violent drug networks and curb the trafficking of fentanyl and weapons. Sheinbaum mentioned during her briefing that fentanyl trafficking from Mexico to the U.S. had dropped by approximately 50% over the past year.
Regarding discussions on Cuba, Sheinbaum clarified that she did not touch upon the topic with Trump, particularly following his statements indicating that Venezuela would cease providing oil or funds to Cuba after the capture of President Nicolás Maduro. Mexico stands prepared to facilitate communication between Cuba and the U.S. if requested, as per Sheinbaum.
During the conversation with Trump, Sheinbaum reiterated Mexico’s opposition to military interventions, citing constitutional principles. The two leaders focused on mutual understanding and cooperation while respecting each country’s sovereignty.
