Trump Claims Mexican Cartels Run Nation, Praises Sheinbaum's Bravery Amid Sovereignty Debate

Trump's Assertions on Mexican Cartels and Leadership

US President Donald Trump recently reiterated his concerns about drug trafficking, stating that while Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum is a 'very brave woman,' Mexico is 'ran by the cartels.' These comments were made around October 23-24, 2025, during discussions about his administration's ongoing strikes against alleged drug boats off the coasts of Venezuela and Colombia as part of a broader campaign against 'narco-terrorism'.

Trump further claimed that President Sheinbaum had refused his offer to send US troops into Mexico to combat cartels, suggesting she was 'so afraid of the cartels, she can't walk' or 'can't even think straight.' His administration has consistently advocated for designating Mexican drug cartels as Foreign Terrorist Organizations (FTOs), a move that expands US enforcement powers and has been a recurring theme in his policy towards Mexico.

President Sheinbaum Upholds Mexican Sovereignty

Claudia Sheinbaum, who made history as Mexico's first female president after her election on June 2, 2024, and inauguration on October 1, 2024, has firmly rejected any form of US military intervention on Mexican soil. In response to Trump's suggestions, Sheinbaum has emphasized Mexico's unwavering sovereignty, declaring, 'our territory is inviolable, our sovereignty is inviolable, our sovereignty is not for sale.'

She has maintained that any US agents operating in Mexico must have explicit permission and function strictly under Mexican institutions. President Sheinbaum has stressed that while Mexico is open to collaboration and coordination with the United States on security matters, it will 'never subordinate ourselves' and 'not accept interference' in its internal affairs. She has also countered US criticisms by pointing to the significant demand for illicit drugs and the flow of firearms originating from the United States as contributing factors to the cartel problem.

Bilateral Relations and Differing Approaches

The exchange highlights ongoing tensions in US-Mexico relations, particularly concerning drug trafficking and border security. Historically, Mexico has resisted the presence of US military forces within its borders, viewing such actions as infringements on its national sovereignty. The US designation of Mexican cartels as FTOs is perceived by Mexico as a potential precursor to military intervention, further complicating diplomatic efforts.

While both nations acknowledge the shared challenge of drug trafficking, their approaches often diverge. Mexico, under President Sheinbaum, advocates for addressing the root causes of violence and the demand for drugs, alongside robust law enforcement. The US, particularly under the Trump administration, has focused more on interdiction, targeting cartel leadership, and increasing border security measures. Sheinbaum has also voiced disagreement with US strikes on drug boats in international waters, citing international laws.