Mexico Blocks U.S. Military Strike Proposal on Cartels
Mexico’s President Claudia Sheinbaum has firmly rejected a proposal by Donald Trump to permit U.S. military strikes against drug cartels on Mexican soil. She stated unequivocally: “It’s not going to happen,” clarifying that while intelligence cooperation with the U.S. is welcome, any foreign military operation within Mexico’s territory is unacceptable.
U.S. Offer and Mexican Response
The proposal comes after Trump publicly indicated his willingness to do “whatever it takes” to curb drug trafficking into the United States. Mexico’s government emphasised that sovereignty and national jurisdiction must be respected, insisting that collaboration cannot cross into foreign intervention. Sheinbaum reiterated this stance directly to U.S. officials, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio.
Broader Implications for Mexico-U.S. Relations
The development underscores a sensitive diplomatic boundary in Mexico-U.S. security cooperation. While both nations share a goal of combating drug trafficking, Mexico’s refusal to allow U.S. military strikes on its soil maintains a firm line on sovereignty. Analysts say preserving this stance could complicate future joint operations, but also stabilise the foundation of bilateral trust by clarifying each party’s limits.
