Trump's Military Push in Mexico Rejected: Sheinbaum Defends Sovereignty, Urges Intelligence Collaboration
May 3, 2025
Mexico has faced severe violence due to powerful drug cartels, with nearly 450,000 murders reported since a controversial military operation began in 2006.
The White House has yet to respond to Sheinbaum's rejection of Trump's military proposal, while acknowledging ongoing cooperation between the two leaders.
During a recent phone call, Trump urged Mexico's President Sheinbaum to allow a greater U.S. military role in combating drug trafficking, but she firmly declined, emphasizing Mexico's sovereignty.
This exchange underscores potential tensions in U.S.-Mexico relations, even as both countries continue to cooperate on immigration and trade issues.
On April 10, Trump warned of escalating consequences, including tariffs and sanctions, unless Mexico complied with agreements regarding Texas water rights.
On May 2, Trump issued an order to implement measures aimed at preventing weapons from entering Mexico from the United States.
Remittances from Mexicans living in the U.S. are crucial to Mexico's economy, totaling over $60 billion annually, complicating the relationship amidst threats of tariffs and military actions.
In response to Trump's offer for military assistance, Sheinbaum suggested enhancing cooperation through increased intelligence sharing and urged for a halt to the illegal arms trade from the U.S. to Mexico.
In a rare positive development, both countries recently resolved a water dispute, with Mexico agreeing to deliver overdue water under the 1944 treaty, benefiting Texas farmers.
Sheinbaum confirmed the authenticity of a Wall Street Journal report detailing her conversation with Trump, clarifying that some details were misrepresented.
Nationalism in Mexico has surged in response to Trump's threats, manifesting in social media campaigns against American products and increased national pride.
White House National Security Council spokesman James Hewitt emphasized the need for Mexico to combat cartels more effectively, acknowledging ongoing threats from foreign terrorist organizations.
Summary based on 23 sources
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Sources

Yahoo News • May 3, 2025
Mexican president rejects Trump's proposal to send U.S. troops to fight drug cartels
Los Angeles Times • May 3, 2025
Trump proposes deploying U.S. troops to Mexico to fight drug cartels - Los Angeles Times
ABC News • May 3, 2025
Mexico's president says she rejected Trump's plan to send US troops across the border