The Daily Star Ireland
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum has sought to clarify and downplay US President-elect Donald Trump’s claims that she agreed to halt migration to the United States from Mexico. This follows a call between the two leaders, which both sides characterized positively, even though it came after Trump threatened to impose a 25% tariff on imports from Mexico, prompting warnings of retaliation from the Mexican government.
Trump shared on his social media platform, Truth Social, that he had a “wonderful conversation” with Sheinbaum, and claimed she had agreed to “stop migration through Mexico” to the US, suggesting a policy shift. However, Sheinbaum quickly responded to these remarks, clarifying that she had discussed Mexico’s ongoing “comprehensive strategy” to manage migration, which involves addressing migrants and caravans before they reach the US border.
She emphasized on social media that Mexico’s position was not to close its borders, but to foster cooperation between governments and peoples. Sheinbaum, who became Mexico’s first female president in October, had earlier shared details of the phone conversation, including a photo of herself smiling during the call. The two leaders also discussed enhancing cooperation on security issues and efforts in Mexico to curb fentanyl consumption.
On the same day, Trump reiterated his stance on social media, vowing to implement a 25% tariff on goods from Mexico and Canada when he assumes office in January. He stated that the tariff would remain until issues like drug trafficking, particularly fentanyl, and illegal immigration were addressed, calling it an “invasion” of the US. Trump also proposed a 10% tariff on Chinese goods.
A key issue in Trump’s campaign was illegal immigration, and he has promised to declare a national emergency on border security and deploy the US military to deport undocumented migrants. However, Mexican Economy Minister Marcelo Ebrard warned that Trump’s tariffs could result in the loss of 400,000 jobs in the US, citing research from US car manufacturers with factories in Mexico.
Ebrard further pointed out that US consumers would bear the brunt of the tariffs, particularly in the pickup truck market, most of which is supplied by Mexico. He noted that the tariffs would add an extra $3,000 to the cost of a new vehicle. He referred to the proposed measures as “a shot in the foot” for the US economy.
Both Mexico and China have strongly opposed Trump’s trade war threats ahead of his second presidential term, which begins on January 20. Sheinbaum called Trump’s tariffs “unacceptable” and reminded that Mexico’s drug cartels largely exist to supply the US drug market. China has also warned that a trade war would not benefit anyone.
