Mexico City, Mexico – Mexican President, Claudia Sheinbaumconveying his belief that his government was able to face various threats made by the US President, Donald Trump. The threat includes a mass deportation plan, an increase in trade tariffs, to the possibility of US military intervention on drug cartels in Mexico. This statement was delivered by Sheinbaum in a press conference on Wednesday (February 19, 2025), as reported by Mexico News Daily.
Sheinbaum stressed that he was not afraid to face Trump’s rhetoric. He claimed to have strong support from the people of Mexico, who gave him confidence to face these challenges. “I have the support of the people. When someone has certainty and belief, and understands the principles held, there is no reason to feel afraid, “he said firmly.
The Mexican President also highlighted the existence of sustainable dialogue between the two countries, which according to him had helped ease the tension related to Trump’s controversial proposals. Sheinbaum stressed that the bilateral relations between Mexico and the US remain well established, despite differences of opinion in some sensitive issues.
Sheinbaum’s comment appeared in response to the statement TrumP, who recently labeled Mexican Narcotics Cartel as a terrorist organization. Trump also strongly criticized the Mexican government over the immigration policy which was considered too loose. The US itself has officially established several criminal groups, such as the deanua, MS-13 trend, the Sinaloa cartel, and the new generation cartel Jalisco, as a foreign terrorist organization. This determination was announced by the US State Department on the same day.
In addition, Sheinbaum discussed US wirawak aircraft operations that flew in the Mexican airspace to monitor drug cartel activities and look for fentanyl laboratories. According to him, the operation was not an illegal action, but part of the cooperation that had been established for a long time between the two countries. “There is nothing illegal in this matter. This is a collaboration and cooperation that has been going on for years. This is not something new, “he explained.
Sheinbaum seemed to try to balance between maintaining the sovereignty of Mexico and maintaining good relations with the US. He asserted that his government would continue to work with the US in fighting drug cartels, but by still respecting the laws and sovereignty of Mexico.
Sheinbaum’s response received extensive attention, especially in the midst of the increasing tension between Mexico and the US related to security and immigration issues. Many political observers consider that Sheinbaum’s firm attitude reflects his confidence as a leader, as well as efforts to maintain national stability amid pressure from neighboring countries.
Meanwhile, the Mexican people seemed to be split in addressing the threats from Trump. Some support Sheinbaum’s firm attitude, while others are worried about the economic and political impacts if relations with the US deteriorated. The two countries, which have close trade and security relations, are expected to find a meeting point to avoid further escalation of conflict.