Mexico’s President Claudia Sheinbaum delivered a firm rebuke to former President Trump’s suggestion of U.S. military strikes against drug cartels within Mexico, asserting her nation’s sovereignty. Sheinbaum responded directly to Trump’s statement that he would do “whatever it takes” to stem the flow of narcotics into the United States, a pledge that ignited immediate concern in Mexico City.
Sheinbaum unequivocally stated that Mexico would not permit foreign military operations on its soil, reaffirming a long-held government position against external intervention. This response echoes previous discussions with Trump regarding similar proposals, highlighting a recurring point of contention between the two leaders.
Trump had proposed authorizing strikes inside Mexico, framing it as a necessary measure to protect American lives and citing success in intercepting drugs at sea. He argued that extending these operations to land routes could potentially save “millions of lives” in the U.S., a claim that prompted the swift and decisive response from Mexico.
While welcoming cooperation on security matters, Sheinbaum emphasized that Mexico’s sovereignty is non-negotiable. Any collaborative efforts, she insisted, must fully respect Mexico’s authority and jurisdiction within its own borders. “It’s not going to happen,” she declared to reporters, referencing Trump’s past considerations of military intervention.
Sheinbaum revealed that she had communicated this position directly to both Trump and Secretary of State Marco Rubio, clarifying that Mexico is open to intelligence sharing but will not allow foreign forces to operate within its territory. Both U.S. leaders, she indicated, appeared to understand and acknowledge Mexico’s stance.
The exchange unfolded amidst reports of a potential U.S. incursion into Mexican territory, specifically the appearance of signs claiming a section of beach as restricted U.S. Department of Defense property. Mexican Navy personnel swiftly removed the signs after confirming they were placed on Mexican soil.
The signs, posted on Playa Bagdad near the Rio Grande’s mouth, warned of a “Restricted Area” in both English and Spanish, asserting U.S. military control. The incident prompted the involvement of the International Boundary and Water Commission, the binational agency responsible for defining the U.S.-Mexico border.
Sheinbaum explained that the signs were installed by contractors working for a U.S. government agency, attributing the confusion to the shifting riverbed which frequently alters the precise location of the border. This geographical ambiguity has historically created challenges in demarcating the boundary.
The disputed area is located near SpaceX’s Starbase launch site in Boca Chica, Texas, a facility operating under contracts with both NASA and the Pentagon. Mexico previously investigated reports of debris from a SpaceX test explosion landing on the Mexican side of the border in June, adding another layer to the complex situation.
This incident also underscores broader tensions between the two nations, including Trump’s earlier proposal to rename the Gulf of Mexico the “Gulf of America,” a move met with strong opposition from Mexico. The ongoing dialogue highlights the delicate balance between security concerns and national sovereignty.
