Mexico Strikes Back at US Following Trump's Tariff Decision

A key point in Sheinbaum's rebuttal is her criticism of the US weapons industry, which she blames for fueling the violence in Mexico by supplying high-powered firearms to criminal groups.

Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum's response to former US President Donald Trump's tariff imposition and accusations is both firm and defiant. Sheinbaum's counter-tariffs on US goods reflect her administration's rejection of Trump's policies and the broader tensions in US-Mexico relations.

A key point in Sheinbaum's rebuttal is her criticism of the US weapons industry, which she blames for fueling the violence in Mexico by supplying high-powered firearms to criminal groups. She referred to a confirmation by the US Department of Justice in January that acknowledged the role of American arms dealers in the supply of weapons to these groups.

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She also dismissed the White House's allegations that the Mexican government had ties to criminal organizations, firmly rejecting any foreign interference in Mexico’s internal affairs.

Sheinbaum’s stance on diplomacy is clear; while she supports international cooperation, she stresses that Mexico’s sovereignty is non-negotiable, rejecting any form of subordination to foreign powers. She emphasized the importance of coordination between neighboring countries but made it clear that this cooperation should be based on mutual respect and accountability.

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On the issue of the US-Mexico border, which has been a contentious point with allegations regarding irregular migration and fentanyl smuggling, Sheinbaum highlighted Mexico’s proactive measures. She cited Mexico’s significant drug busts, including the seizure of over 40 tons of illicit drugs and the arrest of more than 10,000 individuals linked to drug cartels.

She further accused US authorities of not addressing the domestic aspects of the fentanyl crisis and criticized their focus on border-related issues instead of dismantling street-level drug networks and money laundering operations that sustain the trade.

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Sheinbaum also pointed the finger at American pharmaceutical companies for contributing to the opioid crisis, arguing that the widespread prescription of synthetic opioids, sanctioned by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), is a root cause of the epidemic. She referenced lawsuits against pharmaceutical companies as evidence of their role in exacerbating the crisis.

In summary, Sheinbaum’s statements underscore Mexico's determination to maintain its sovereignty while holding the US accountable for its role in both the drug trade and the fentanyl crisis. Her defense of Mexico's efforts to combat narcotics and migration issues demonstrates her administration's commitment to addressing these complex issues while rejecting foreign interference.

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Read also| Canada Imposes Retaliatory Tariffs on Its Long-Time Ally

Read also| India Escapes Trump's First Tariff Salvo as China, Mexico & Canada Bear the Brunt

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