Claudia Sheinbaum, president of Mexico, does not possess the same firmness as other international leaders when facing situations of blackmail, unlike the strength shown by Brazil, the European Union, or Canada. Unlike Enrique Peña Nieto and Felipe Calderón, Sheinbaum has chosen to maintain calm and avoid personal confrontations, even in times of pressure.
In a recent public appearance, Sheinbaum called for a rally in the Zócalo to announce tariff and non-tariff reprisals against the United States, although the threat from this country was ultimately postponed. Her strategy combines apparent calm, media manipulation, and fear of confronting the United States in an unequal dispute.
Although Sheinbaum has tried to negotiate with caution, her results have been limited, especially on security issues. Compared to other countries like Canada, Mexico has conceded more to U.S. pressures, which has generated criticism regarding her ability to defend national interests.
Sheinbaum's strategy has been criticized for its lack of decisive action in response to U.S. tariff threats. While the European Union and Canada responded with strong measures, Mexico has displayed a more passive attitude, interpreted as an attempt to appease Trump and avoid more severe reprisals.
Despite claims of having alternative plans to respond to U.S. actions, it seems that Sheinbaum has opted for a more conciliatory stance, seeking to avoid a direct confrontation that could further harm the Mexican economy. Although she has attempted to maintain an image of firmness, in practice she has shown a willingness to yield to U.S. demands.
The trade relationship between Mexico and the United States is crucial for the Mexican economy, which limits Sheinbaum's options in her attempt to confront Trump’s pressures. Despite her efforts to remain calm and negotiate diplomatically, it seems that Sheinbaum's strategy has not achieved the expected results, leaving doubt about her ability to protect the country's interests amid international trade conflicts.
