Mexico is begging Trump to stop.
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum addressed concerns on Monday regarding the potential imposition of a 25% tariff on Mexican imports by the U.S. She stated that her administration is awaiting President Donald Trump’s decision to follow through on the threat, which he first made in February. At the time, Trump had warned of the tariffs unless Mexico took further action to curb illegal immigration and drug trafficking. However, the proposed tariffs were suspended after Mexico deployed 10,000 National Guard troops to its southern border, a move aimed at reducing the flow of migrants to the U.S. and cracking down on criminal activity.
Sheinbaum highlighted that her administration has been in continuous communication with U.S. officials, including cabinet secretaries for security and trade, to ensure that both countries remain on the same page. She also noted that while a conversation with President Trump was still a possibility, the decision ultimately rests with the U.S. government. “Whatever his decision is, we will make our own plans, and Mexico remains united in this matter,” she said.
Mexico believes it has made significant strides in addressing U.S. concerns. The number of migrants arriving at the U.S. southern border has sharply decreased in recent months. Additionally, Mexico has taken aggressive steps to combat drug cartels, including the recent extradition of 29 high-profile cartel members, including the individual responsible for the 1985 murder of a DEA agent. Mexican authorities have also dismantled over 100 synthetic drug labs in Sinaloa, dealing a significant blow to the notorious Sinaloa Cartel.
U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent confirmed that Mexico had even offered to match the tariffs the U.S. has imposed on China, demonstrating a commitment to bilateral cooperation. However, as Sheinbaum pointed out, the ultimate decision lies with the United States, and Mexico stands ready to respond based on the U.S. government’s actions.