Sheinbaum Rejects Trump’s Proposal for US Troops in Mexico

Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum has turned down President Donald Trump’s suggestion to deploy US troops to Mexico to tackle drug trafficking by cartels. This rejection came after a 45-minute phone call on April 16, where Trump pressured Sheinbaum to allow a military operation against the cartels.

During the conversation, Trump allegedly emphasized the need for Mexico to take a firmer stance against cartels responsible for smuggling large quantities of fentanyl and other drugs into the United States. He warned that if Mexico did not act, he would consider taking measures himself.

As highlighted by the CDC, drug overdoses have become the leading cause of death for Americans aged 18 to 44.

“The cartel is in a war with the United States. It’s time for the United States to go to war with the cartel. The territory south of our border is now completely under the control of these criminal organizations,” Trump stated, noting the severe violence associated with the cartels.

In response, Sheinbaum remarked, “Mexico is very afraid of cartels. We want to help. We can’t run a country like this.” She clarified that she had informed Trump that deploying US troops in Mexico was not an option, proposing instead that both nations could cooperate on intelligence-sharing.

“No, President Trump, our territory is off-limits and our sovereignty is non-negotiable,” she said. “We can work together, but it must be on our terms. We are not a protectorate or colony.”

Both leaders characterized their dialogue as constructive, with White House spokesperson Anna Kelly mentioning that while both countries aim to ensure safer borders, “Mexico must increase efforts to protect Americans from hazardous foreign terrorist groups.”