Mexico has sent 37 cartel members to the United States following a request from the U.S. Department of Justice. President Claudia Sheinbaum stated on Wednesday that this was a “sovereign decision” made by the Mexican government.
In her remarks, Sheinbaum addressed critics who suggested that this action was taken due to increased pressure from Washington.
It’s worth noting that U.S. President Trump has threatened military action against these cartels.
Sheinbaum confirmed that while the transfer was initiated at the request of the U.S., the Mexican National Security Council made the ultimate decision based on what they deemed to be “in Mexico’s best interest” and related to national security.
She emphasized, “Mexico, even if we ask for whatever we need, prioritizes our own needs. This is a sovereign decision,” during a routine morning press briefing.
Sheinbaum has previously been commended for managing relations with Trump well. However, she’s had to navigate a delicate balance between meeting the demands of the Trump administration and maintaining strength in both domestic and international arenas.
Mexican officials indicate that these transfers serve as a sort of pressure release, helping to address Trump’s expectations while demonstrating a serious approach towards criminal organizations.
Since the U.S. conducted a military operation in Venezuela against former President Nicolas Maduro, tensions in the region have heightened, especially as this was seen as an unprecedented use of force that has made many leaders in Latin America uneasy.
The individuals transferred to the U.S. are reportedly affiliated with prominent groups, including the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG) and the Sinaloa Cartel, which the U.S. classifies as a terrorist organization.
This marks the third transfer of cartel leaders this year, with Mexico indicating that a total of 92 individuals have been sent to the U.S. thus far.
U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi remarked that this transfer represents a significant milestone in the Trump administration’s goal of dismantling cartel operations.
The U.S. Department of Justice characterized the transfer as an “important step” for both nations, emphasizing that cooperation is essential for their mutual interests.
Bondi stated, “These 37 cartel members, including those from the Sinaloa Cartel and CJNG, will face the consequences of their actions against American citizens on U.S. soil,” as part of a joint statement with other officials.
On the same day, the Department of Justice announced it had already indicted at least one of those deported, Armando Gómez Nuñez, identified as a senior leader of the CJNG, who faces charges related to drugs and unlawful possession of weaponry, including a machine gun and explosives.
In August, Mexico’s security minister acknowledged that the decision to transfer these individuals stemmed from their ongoing criminal activities even while imprisoned, as well as the risk of judicial releases.
