Mexico’s Sheinbaum Rejects US Military Action As Cartels Tighten Their Grip

President Claudia Sheinbaum is pushing back against any US involvement in Mexico’s battle against drug cartels, refusing to allow American forces to take direct action despite the growing violence caused by these criminal organizations. The Trump administration’s recent classification of several Mexican cartels as terrorist organizations has raised questions about whether military intervention could be next.

Trump has prioritized dismantling the power of drug cartels, with Secretary of State Marco Rubio stating that the designation will help law enforcement crack down on cartel activities. Elon Musk, who has played an increasing role in national security discussions, hinted that the move could justify military strikes.

Sheinbaum, who has been accused of cartel ties in her controversial rise to power, immediately rejected the US designation, claiming that Mexico “will not accept intervention.” She announced plans to strengthen constitutional protections against any foreign military action within Mexico’s borders.

Even with her resistance, Sheinbaum’s government has taken steps to appear cooperative. Authorities recently arrested high‑ranking members of the Sinaloa Cartel and increased military presence along the border, a move seen as an effort to avoid Trump’s threatened economic penalties rather than a legitimate crackdown on organized crime.

Meanwhile, US intelligence operations inside Mexico have been intensifying, with drones conducting surveillance to locate fentanyl production sites and other cartel strongholds. Sheinbaum acknowledged that these operations have been ongoing for years but expressed frustration over their growing scope.

Despite the worsening violence and mounting pressure from Washington, Sheinbaum remains firm in her refusal to allow US military intervention, even as cartel‑related deaths continue to climb.

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