The Presidency of the United States has been assumed by Donald Trump for just 18 days and changes in the perception and preferences of public opinion in Mexico are already being observed. It seems that one of the most controversial topics is the possibility that under the label of "terrorist groups", Trump may send troops to the country to combat criminal organizations.
President Sheinbaum, in a recent speech in Querétaro, emphasized the defense of national sovereignty, taking a firm stance on the matter and generating majority support from the Mexican population.
A recent survey revealed that 62% of respondents disagree with the use of U.S. military forces within Mexico to combat criminal groups, while 32% were in favor. Furthermore, 68% viewed negatively the idea that the U.S. government could classify drug cartels in Mexico as "international terrorist groups".
These majority stances against cooperation with the United States seem to reflect an open rejection of Donald Trump and his threatening tone. Mexican public opinion is increasingly united around the defense of national sovereignty and in opposition to possible U.S. military interventions in the country.
It is important to highlight that this rejection of cooperation with the Trump administration transcends party lines, showing a widespread consensus among supporters of the ruling party, nonpartisans, and opposition members. Even family and economic ties with the United States have not been sufficient to change this stance, as the majority of respondents prefer to defend national sovereignty over any security cooperation.
The hardening of Mexican public opinion towards the Trump administration has been reflected in an increasingly negative perception of relations between Mexico and the United States. Issues such as deportations, tariffs, and organized crime have contributed to this change in opinion in a short period of time.
Despite widespread concern about insecurity in the country, the majority of respondents are reluctant to cooperate with the United States on issues of organized crime and defend national sovereignty. 78% of the population considers insecurity to be the main problem in Mexico, marking a record figure not seen in many years.
