Sheinbaum Blames US Policies for Cartel Violence

Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum has implicated the U.S. government’s actions during the Biden administration for inciting a violent conflict among factions of the Sinaloa Cartel. This turf war erupted following the arrest of notorious cartel leader Ismael “El Mayo” Zambada.

In a morning news conference, Sheinbaum suggested that had the Biden administration shared intelligence with Mexico, the cartels wouldn’t have fractured, and the ongoing violence wouldn’t have escalated. This statement arrives amid rising tensions between Mexico and the U.S., particularly concerning her administration’s reluctance to confront the cartels. Sheinbaum made her comments shortly after Mexico decided to pursue legal action against U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement over the deaths of migrants in custody.

Sheinbaum referenced Zambada’s kidnapping and arrest in 2024 by the Chapitos faction of the cartel, an operation occurring in the final year of Biden’s presidency. Reports indicated that Los Chapitos, the sons of imprisoned cartel leader Joaquín “El Chapo” Guzmán, arranged a meeting with El Mayo, ostensibly to capture him and facilitate his extradition to the U.S. Upon arrival, U.S. federal agents arrested him. Zambada has since pleaded guilty to drug trafficking and is awaiting sentencing. His arrest triggered a violent competition for power within the cartel, resulting in numerous murders, kidnappings, and forced disappearances.

Recently leaked photos showcasing U.S. agents awaiting Zambada’s arrival have brought renewed attention to the circumstances of his arrest, hinting at potential collaboration between Los Chapitos and U.S. law enforcement. This comes amidst increasing strain between the two countries, with pressure mounting from the U.S. for Mexico to take decisive action against drug trafficking organizations.

The U.S. Department of Justice recently filed charges against Sinaloa Governor Ruben Rocha Moya and nine of his associates overseeing local law enforcement. This development has significantly challenged Sheinbaum’s credibility. Instead of agreeing to facilitate Rocha Moya’s extradition, Sheinbaum has insisted on national sovereignty, defending Rocha Moya by claiming no evidence of misconduct exists. However, U.S. federal prosecutors contend that Rocha Moya conspired with Los Chapitos while accepting bribes in return for protection.