Sheinbaum Rejects US Efforts To Crush Cartels Amid Growing Concerns Over Her Leadership

As the Trump administration escalates its battle against drug cartels, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum is making it clear that she will not tolerate any US-led action inside Mexico. Despite overwhelming cartel violence plaguing her country, Sheinbaum insists that Mexico will not accept intervention, a stance that has raised questions about her commitment to fighting organized crime.

The Trump administration recently classified several Mexican cartels as terrorist organizations, a move that expands US authority to crack down on their activities. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said the designation provides law enforcement with “additional tools” to combat these violent organizations. Tech billionaire Elon Musk, who has been given a prominent role in Trump’s administration, hinted that this classification could justify military strikes, saying it “means they’re eligible for drone strikes.”

Sheinbaum, who took office after an election marred by cartel violence, pushed back against the US approach. She declared that while Mexico is willing to cooperate, it will not accept “interventionism” or “subordination.” She also vowed to propose constitutional reforms to reinforce Mexico’s sovereignty and prevent foreign military action on its soil.

Despite her tough rhetoric, Sheinbaum has taken steps to appease Washington. Mexico has carried out major drug seizures, arrested members of the Sinaloa Cartel, and increased troop deployments to the US border. These moves appear to be an effort to delay Trump’s threatened 25% tariffs rather than a genuine crackdown on cartel operations.

The US has already increased its surveillance inside Mexico, flying drones to locate fentanyl labs. Reports confirm that Washington has been conducting these covert operations for years, though Sheinbaum now claims she was unaware of the full extent.

While she continues to resist outside intervention, cartel violence remains a major issue in Mexico, with hundreds of thousands killed in drug-related conflicts since 2006.

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