Sheinbaum Responds to Trump’s Cartel Remarks

Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum addressed comments made by U.S. President Donald Trump at the G7 summit, where he suggested that drug cartels control parts of Mexico. In her response, Sheinbaum implied Trump was misinformed, emphasizing that there’s no need to engage in controversy every time he speaks.

During a morning news briefing, Sheinbaum was asked about Trump’s claim that she had lost control of the country to cartels. She appeared to downplay the significance of his statement, remarking, “He’s said this before. President Trump communicates in his own way… We don’t need to overreact to everything he says.”

She expressed her main priority is to ensure that Mexicans recognize the efforts of her government on their behalf. “That’s what I care about,” she added.

When confronted about Trump’s assertion that the Mexican government had lost control, Sheinbaum firmly disagreed, stating it wasn’t accurate.

“He doesn’t have enough information,” she remarked. “I’ve told him privately before. I mentioned recently that the Mexican state still exists.”

Sheinbaum also noted her discussions with Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin regarding cartel issues. She praised Public Security Secretary Omar García Harfuch, particularly in light of a cartel assassination attempt against him in June 2020 while she was governor of Mexico City.

While some U.S. officials have praised Harfuch, there have been reports highlighting his controversial past and allegations of corruption, including bribery. Since taking charge of Mexico’s security forces, he has concentrated on a campaign showcasing arrests and drug seizures. However, criminal organizations continue to operate largely without opposition across Mexico.