Mexican Cartels / Call With Lula da Silva

Mexican Cartels. Claudia Sheinbaum emphasized that labeling drug cartels as terrorist organizations fails to address the root of the issue. "We believe this designation does not provide a solution. What truly makes a difference is collaboration and joint coordination. Our approach is grounded in a comprehensive strategy, within which cooperation and coordination play a crucial role.” She also emphasized that, in response to Tesla CEO Elon Musk's accusations of Mexican leaders like Carlos Slim allegedly being linked to cartels, no investigations will be conducted unless credible evidence or valid reasons emerge.

On Jan. 20, Trump signed an executive order classifying Mexican cartels as foreign terrorist organizations, labeling them as a national security threat that surpasses traditional organized crime. The policy seeks to dismantle the operational and command structures of these groups, both within the United States and internationally, to protect US citizens and national security. Within 14 days of the order, the US State Department, in coordination with the Treasury Department, the Attorney General’s Office, and the Department of Homeland Security, will determine which cartels and organizations will be designated as terrorist organizations. Experts have raised concerns that the historical precedent of classifying cartels as terrorist organizations could provide Trump with a basis for deploying special forces to target these groups, potentially circumventing the consent of the Mexican government.

Lula da Silva. President Sheinbaum shared that she had a call with President Lula da Silva, during which he expressed his strong support for Mexicans residing in the United States. Sheinbaum highlighted that their conversation also included discussions on CELAC, Lula's solidarity with Panama, and a range of other bilateral issues. She further revealed that Lula da Silva extended an invitation for her to visit Brazil.

The call also addressed the strengthening of productive relations within the Americas and exploring ways to maintain positive ties with the United States following Trump’s return to the White House. Under López Obrador's administration, Mexico cultivated a strong relationship with Lula da Silva, a partnership that continues under Sheinbaum. Both nations have consistently expressed a mutual interest in pursuing a comprehensive trade agreement.

Gulf of Mexico. Sheinbaum clarified that the proposal to rename the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America will apply solely within the jurisdiction of the United States. “Gulf of Mexico remains the international name, which is why it is important to refer directly to the decrees. The decree issued by President Trump is specifically about renaming their continental shelf as the Gulf of America, not the entire Gulf. It is crucial to place this matter in the proper context,” she explained.