Relations With the United States / Water Dispute

Relations With United States. President Sheinbaum addressed the recent detentions of Mexicans in the United States, firmly rejecting any treatment of them as criminals. She confirmed that diplomatic notes have been sent to protest these actions and assured state protection for those who are deported.

According to a recent NBC report, between Jan. 20 and Oct. 15, 2025, ICE arrested approximately 220,000 people, including around 75,000 with no prior criminal history. The agency averaged 824 arrests per day, well below the White House target of 3,000 but more than double the daily average under the Biden administration in 2024. Men made up roughly 90% of those detained, with Mexican nationals representing the largest group (85,000), followed by people from Guatemala (31,000) and Honduras (24,000). Over 60% of those arrested were between 25 and 45 years old. Nearly 23,000 individuals left the country voluntarily, while ICE currently holds 65,000 migrants in detention facilities nationwide.

These figures do not include Border Patrol arrests, which have intensified in several US cities. 

Water Negotiations Continue. Sheinbaum noted that governors from northern states are actively engaged with US authorities to ensure treaty compliance amid the ongoing drought crisis. A new round of talks is scheduled for Dec. 16.

Yesterday, Donald Trump warned Mexico that he will impose a 5% tariff if the country fails to meet its obligations under the 1944 Water Treaty, arguing that lacking deliveries are hurting agribusiness in Texas. This is not the first time Trump issues such threats. In April, he accused Mexico of withholding 1.3 million acre-feet of water owed to Texas under the treaty. 

Expanded Social Programs in Michoacan. Carlos Torres, Technical Secretary of the Cabinet, outlined the comprehensive strategy for Michoacan. The plan includes wellness fairs, 217 peace dialogues with over 14,000 participants, and activities promoting knowledge sharing. Infrastructure projects included 16 electrification works and the expansion of the ISSSTE Hospital Clinic. Investment promotion committees were established, and the Tejedoras de la Patria program continued registrations. Agricultural efforts involved the packaging of lentils and the collection of 16t nationwide. Sports programs featured functional circuits, pre-competitive tournaments organized by CONADE, and the installation of an AI-powered application to assist tourists.