Details of the U.S.-Mexico Agreement

Trump used his platform on Truth Social to praise his discussions with President Sheinbaum, describing them as “wonderful” and productive. The primary focus was on curbing unauthorized migration and the drug trade into the United States.

He asserted that they would implement the agreement without delay, effectively sealing the southern U.S. border to these illegal crossings.

Tariffs as a Negotiation Tool

The agreement came on the heels of Trump's threat to impose significant tariffs. He had previously warned that he would levy a 25% tariff on all goods imported from Mexico and Canada starting from the first day of his administration unless both nations took decisive actions against drug and migration flows.

Trump's tariff threat was intended as a lever to accelerate negotiations and secure cooperation from Mexico.

Response from Mexico's President Sheinbaum

Reacting to the tariff threat, President Sheinbaum expressed concerns about the potential economic repercussions and emphasized the need for cooperation over coercion. She highlighted that addressing these issues requires mutual understanding and collaborative efforts.

In a letter to Trump, Sheinbaum also pointed out the role of the U.S. in the proliferation of firearms in Mexico, suggesting that the U.S. shares some responsibility for the current challenges.

Immediate Impact of the Agreement

According to President Trump, the agreement entails comprehensive measures by Mexico to prevent migrants from reaching the U.S. border. “She has agreed to stop migration through Mexico, and into the United States, effectively closing our Southern Border,” Trump stated.

Officials expect this move to significantly reduce the number of illegal border crossings and the influx of narcotics into the United States.

Trump and Sheinbaum on Future Collaboration

Trump’s statements on Truth Social further emphasized the immediate effect of the agreement: “Mexico will stop people from going to our Southern Border, effective immediately. THIS WILL GO A LONG WAY TOWARD STOPPING THE ILLEGAL INVASION OF THE USA. Thank you!!!”

In her communication with Trump, Sheinbaum reiterated that real solutions to migration and drug trafficking require more than just barriers and tariffs.

The Broader Context of U.S.-Mexico Relations

Sheinbaum’s comments also drew attention to the complex nature of migration and drug issues, which involve economic, social, and political factors across borders. “President Trump, migration and drug consumption in the United States cannot be addressed through threats or tariffs,” she remarked.

This agreement marks a pivotal moment in U.S.-Mexico relations, reflecting a shift towards more stringent border controls under Trump’s administration.