Mexico’s Diplomatic Actions Against U.S. Immigration Policies
Roberto Velasco Alvarez, Mexico’s leading diplomat, has announced legal measures against U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) as well as civilian immigration detention centers. This comes in response to recent migrant deaths in custody and various raids.
This announcement followed Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum’s threats of legal action after the shooting of Lorenzo Salgado Araujo in Houston. Salgado was shot by federal agents after he reportedly attempted to ram a police vehicle and run over an ICE agent during an arrest operation. President Sheinbaum emphasized that Salgado’s main issue was lacking legal status.
Velasco mentioned at a news conference, “The president has directed us to take direct action in response to these tragedies. The reality is that Lorenzo Salgado took his life from ICE.”
In line with Sheinbaum’s directive, the Mexican Secretariat of Foreign Relations plans to collaborate with the Attorney General’s Office. They intend to file charges through the U.S. Department of Justice and state attorney general’s offices against those held accountable for the deaths of 17 Mexicans who died in ICE custody or operations during 2025-2026.
He added, “We are filing a complaint that goes beyond foreign affairs and calls for a criminal investigation into the case.”
In a second legal avenue, Velasco also plans to pursue civil action against private firms operating ICE detention centers.
“We aim to file a civil lawsuit against the company running the detention center,” he stated.
The initial step for Mexico is to issue cease and desist letters to the companies managing ICE detention centers, formally requesting changes to the conditions that have contributed to the deaths of immigrants. Velasco hinted at the possibilities if these companies disregard the letter.
Furthermore, Mexico’s top diplomat expressed intentions to collaborate with various U.S. organizations to highlight this issue and engage with members of Congress.
Velasco concluded, “The priority of our work is always to protect the human rights of our fellow citizens.”
