In the midst of escalating tensions between the US and Canada, one country appears to be sailing smoothly under the leadership of its president, Claudia Sheinbaum. When US President Donald Trump recently announced the postponement of tariffs on Mexico for another month, his comments were telling. In a post on his social media platform, Truth Social, Trump praised Sheinbaum, emphasizing the positive relationship between the two nations.
“I did this as an accommodation, and out of respect for, President Sheinbaum,” Trump wrote, highlighting the effectiveness of their cooperation, particularly on border issues. This praise came in stark contrast to his continued verbal sparring with Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. While Trump refers to Trudeau as “Governor Trudeau” and even quips that Canada is the “51st State,” his tone toward Mexico remains notably warmer.
Mexico’s Diplomatic Success Under Sheinbaum
This diplomatic shift has not gone unnoticed, particularly among those in Sheinbaum’s camp. Many see the handling of Trump as a testament to her diplomatic skills in managing an unpredictable US president. Despite Trump’s previous threats to impose sweeping tariffs on Mexican goods, Sheinbaum has successfully fended off these measures twice in just two months, thanks to her strategic negotiations with the US president.
The Mexican president’s stance has remained firm yet composed. Sheinbaum consistently advises her fellow citizens to remain calm, assuring them that “cooler heads will prevail.” Her diplomacy has borne fruit, with Trump even appearing to appreciate her clarity, demeanor, and effective communication during their interactions.
Concrete Actions on Border Issues
Sheinbaum has not simply talked the talk. Her administration has taken concrete actions to address issues like fentanyl trafficking and illegal immigration, areas where the Trump administration has been particularly vocal. In a recent press briefing, Sheinbaum shared new data from US Customs and Border Protection showing a significant reduction in fentanyl seizures, with the number of kilos dropped by 75% over the past six months. This development was highlighted as a sign of Mexico’s commitment to tackling border security.
Additionally, in February, Sheinbaum agreed to deploy 10,000 troops to the US-Mexico border, signaling Mexico’s readiness to collaborate with the US on enforcement. Furthermore, her government has extradited 29 drug cartel figures to face trial in the US, including Rafael Caro Quintero, one of the most wanted drug lords by US authorities since the 1980s.
Diplomacy and the US-Mexico Relationship
While Sheinbaum has made significant strides in the US-Mexico relationship, she has not been afraid to stand her ground. She has publicly questioned the flow of weapons from the US into Mexico, pointing out that while drugs come from Latin America, the demand for illegal substances is overwhelmingly in the US. This stance has strengthened her position, particularly when the Trump administration recently labeled several Mexican cartels as “foreign terrorist organizations.”
Her administration is also involved in a legal battle with US gun manufacturers over the supply of firearms to Mexican cartels. If successful, Mexico could expand its lawsuit, accusing these manufacturers of complicity in the actions of terrorist groups.
Challenges and Uncertainty Ahead
Despite these successes, Sheinbaum’s diplomatic victory is still in its early days. Mexican economist Valeria Moy cautioned that while Sheinbaum has handled the pressure well, it may be too early for celebrations. The real test will come in the coming months, as the US and Mexico continue to negotiate critical issues, such as tariffs and the US-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA).
Mexico remains the US’s largest trading partner, and the constant back-and-forth over tariffs creates instability that could potentially harm Mexico’s economy. The Mexican peso has already weakened during this episode, and market analysts are calling for a more reliable and consistent relationship between the two nations.
The Future of US-Mexico Relations
For now, Sheinbaum seems to be playing her hand well, refusing to back down on critical issues while maintaining a diplomatic tone with the US president. Her refusal to be either overly accommodating or combative has positioned her as a strong leader in a challenging international environment.
As she continues to navigate the complex dynamics of US-Mexico relations, she remains focused on defending Mexico’s sovereignty and prioritizing the welfare of its citizens. With the renegotiation of the USMCA on the horizon and more diplomatic challenges ahead, it’s clear that this relationship is far from settled.
But for now, at least, amid the political theater unfolding between the US and Canada, Mexico’s Sheinbaum can hold her head high. In the battle of words, at least, she’s managed to steer her country through turbulent waters with finesse.
