President Sheinbaum has done everything she can to appease Trump, but that is a necessary although not sufficient condition. She exposed the essence of the president and highlighted the extraordinarily complex nature of dealing with him, both for Mexico and for the rest of the world. In his second term, Trump appears more uninhibited, announcing to the world that he will do whatever he wants to validate his stature as a leader.
Sheinbaum's response has been one of calm, prudence, and intelligence, facing a challenge that surpasses that faced by López Obrador. Trump wants to make it clear that he is in charge, that he does not have to consider anyone, and that he is the greatest leader in the history of mankind. The president will have to deal with a different man than in his first term, aggressive and polarizing.
Sheinbaum's strategy seeks to prevent Trump from going unchecked, although nothing guarantees success due to the volatility of the American president. For now, the announcement that there will be no tariffs on products exported by Mexico covered by the T-MEC until April 2 is a positive outcome. The uncertainty lies in understanding what will be acceptable to Trump, who appears unpredictable in his demands.
In his recent speech, Trump has attacked the democrats and has been more aggressive than on previous occasions. Sheinbaum acknowledges that the task is challenging and must balance her American counterpart's demands to maintain peace. However, uncertainty persists, as Trump acts on his impulses and it is difficult to anticipate what will satisfy him.
