Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum has once again made it clear that she will not allow any US military strikes on Mexican territory. She delivered this message directly to President Donald Trump during a recent phone call, stating that security cooperation does not require foreign intervention.
Sheinbaum Stands Firm on Mexican Sovereignty
Speaking to reporters after the conversation, Sheinbaum emphasized Mexico's independence in handling its affairs. "We continue to collaborate and coordinate without the need for intervention from the United States," she said firmly. She added a strong declaration: "We operate in Mexico. No one else does."
Call Follows Controversial Venezuela Operation
This discussion took place just one week after a highly sensitive event. US forces captured Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and transported him to New York to face drug trafficking charges. That move has significantly increased tensions across the region.
Sheinbaum revealed that Trump specifically asked for her opinion on the Venezuela operation during their call. "He asked me what my opinion was on what they had done in Venezuela," she recounted. "I told him clearly that our Constitution was very clear, that we don't agree with interventions."
Trump Renews Warnings About Mexican Cartels
After the Maduro operation, Trump has again suggested possible unilateral US action against Mexican drug cartels. He particularly focused on groups involved in fentanyl trafficking, which causes many overdose deaths in the United States.
Earlier this month, Trump made strong statements about the situation. "Mexico has to get their act together, because they're pouring through Mexico. And we're going to have to do something," he warned. Trump added that he had offered US military assistance to "clean up" the cartel problem.
Sheinbaum has consistently rejected this idea of foreign military help. She argues that such assistance is completely unnecessary for Mexico.
Focus on Security Cooperation and Progress Claims
According to Sheinbaum, the latest call primarily focused on security cooperation between the two nations. She said she highlighted what she described as significant progress by Mexican authorities. Specifically, she claimed a 50% year-on-year reduction in fentanyl trafficking into the United States.
She added that senior officials from both countries have scheduled an important meeting. They will gather on January 22–23 to continue discussions on bilateral security issues.
Balancing Diplomacy Amid Policy Differences
Since taking office in late 2024, Sheinbaum has worked carefully to manage tensions with Trump. Despite clear policy disagreements, she maintains that dialogue with Washington remains absolutely essential.
"It has helped us so far," Sheinbaum said about the ongoing communication. "We must continue in this vein, seeking dialogue and understanding. Where we disagree, we must also talk about it so that there are no misunderstandings and solutions can be found."
This approach reflects her strategy of maintaining diplomatic relations while firmly protecting Mexican sovereignty and opposing foreign military presence on Mexican soil.
