MEXICO CITY — The U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security visited Mexico on Friday, concluding a tour of three Latin American nations where she focused on immigration, crime, and deportation issues.
As her visit draws attention within the context of increasing efforts by the Trump administration to heighten deportation activities and dissuade northward migration, she concluded meetings in El Salvador and Colombia before arriving in Mexico. Meanwhile, Secretary of State Marco Rubio was in Guyana engaging with Caribbean leaders during this time.
Upon her arrival, she was welcomed at the airport by Mexico’s foreign minister. In subsequent meetings with Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum and other senior officials, the dialogue focused on collaboration. The discussion took place under the flags of the two nations, symbolizing the partnership amidst current tensions.
Sheinbaum’s administration aims to mitigate escalating tariffs set by the Trump administration—a move economic experts warn might push Mexico toward a recession. As part of efforts to delay such U.S. sanctions, Mexico has dispatched 10,000 troops to its northern border and executed strong operations against drug manufacturing. Furthermore, it recently extradited 29 prominent cartel members wanted by the U.S.
The U.S. Secretary wrote on social media that these actions represent “a positive step”, but acknowledged that continued efforts are necessary to halt the illegal drug and immigrant flow into the U.S.
President Sheinbaum characterized the meeting as “fruitful”, highlighting the positive bilateral relationship which maintains respect for each nation’s sovereignty.
Despite a recent U.S. tariff announcement of 25% on car parts, President Sheinbaum emphasized that the majority of her discussions with the Secretary would revolve around security and migration, while reinforcing Mexico’s sovereign rights.
“We aim to share with her the ongoing initiatives and the cooperative mechanisms we have with the United States,” Sheinbaum shared in her morning briefing. She expressed optimism for a productive meeting focused on coordination.
Unlike counterparts who adopted a confrontational stance toward President Trump, with reciprocal tariffs as a response, President Sheinbaum has favored a diplomatic approach. She announced that Mexico would seek “preferential treatment” regarding the U.S. auto tariffs.
This diplomatic strategy has garnered significant approval within Mexico, reflecting widespread national support for Sheinbaum’s handling of relations with the Trump administration.