Politics Country February 19, 2025

Claudia Sheinbaum Responds to Trump on Cartels

In response to Donald Trump's comments about drug cartels, President Claudia Sheinbaum reiterated that her government does not support organized crime, emphasizing sovereignty and collaboration with the US.


Claudia Sheinbaum Responds to Trump on Cartels

The President of Mexico, Claudia Sheinbaum, responded decisively to Donald Trump's accusations about the supposed control of cartels in the country and the presence of CIA drones flying over its territory. In a conference, Sheinbaum stated: 'I am not afraid of Donald Trump; I have a people who support me.'

Trump had mentioned that the cartels largely control Mexico, a comment that received coverage from media outlets such as The New York Times and CNN. Despite pointing out that the MQ-9 Reaper drones used by the CIA are unarmed and there are no plans for military use in Mexico, the U.S. president insisted on his remarks.

Sheinbaum clarified that the CIA drone flights are authorized by the Mexican government and are part of a collaboration established for years. She also defended her government's stance on sovereignty and the fight against organized crime, distancing herself from the accusation of defending the cartels.

The president urged Trump to focus on investigating money laundering and other criminal activities in his own country, highlighting the shared responsibility in the fight against drug trafficking. Additionally, she refuted the confusion of certain media regarding the classification of the cartels as terrorists, stating that coordination between countries will not imply submission.

Regarding the possible declaration of Mexican cartels as terrorist organizations, it is mentioned that this action would be carried out according to an FBI document, although the exact confirmation was pending. Sheinbaum reiterated her commitment to collaboration, but emphasized that it would be on terms of equality and mutual respect, rejecting any external interference.