Trump claims victory on migration talks with Mexican President Sheinbaum

President-elect Donald Trump announced a breakthrough in curbing illegal migration from Mexico after a conversation with Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum on Wednesday. However, Sheinbaum emphasized Mexico’s ongoing efforts and reiterated that her country’s stance is to build bridges, not close borders.

The discussion came shortly after Trump threatened sweeping tariffs on Canada and Mexico to pressure these nations on migration and drug-related issues. In a statement on Truth Social, Trump claimed that Sheinbaum had agreed to “stop Migration through Mexico,” which he interpreted as effectively closing the U.S.-Mexico border.

Sheinbaum, however, described their exchange as “excellent,” stating that Mexico is already addressing migrant caravans and prioritizing cooperation over confrontation. “We reiterate that Mexico’s position is not to close borders but to build bridges between governments and peoples,” she posted on social media.

She also highlighted Mexico’s campaign to prevent fentanyl consumption and emphasized reinforcing bilateral security cooperation while respecting each country’s sovereignty.

While Trump celebrated the dialogue as a success, the future of his proposed tariffs remains uncertain. Earlier this week, Trump announced plans to impose a 25% tax on all imports from Canada and Mexico and an additional 10% tariff on Chinese exports tied to fentanyl production.

Trump’s tariff threats caused fluctuations in financial markets and underscored his strategy of using trade disruption as a policy tool. Despite no immediate confirmation of tariff implementation, Trump’s supporters may view the threats as effective leverage.

Economic experts warn that such tariffs could disrupt the U.S.-Mexico-Canada trade agreement (USMCA), potentially raising consumer prices and slowing economic growth. The agreement, finalized during Trump’s first term, has been a cornerstone of North American trade relations.

Illegal migration across the southern border has significantly decreased, partly due to enhanced U.S.-Mexico cooperation during President Joe Biden’s administration. Arrivals at the border have dropped by 40% since their peak in December, attributed to Mexico’s tightened checks at rail yards and highways.

Mexican authorities have also increased migrant apprehensions nationwide, relocating individuals to southern regions in what experts describe as a strategy to discourage continued migration northward.

Trump also reiterated his commitment to combating the fentanyl crisis, announcing plans for a large-scale public awareness campaign. “We will educate people on the horrors of fentanyl and how devastating it is,” Trump posted on Truth Social.

Fentanyl, originally developed to treat severe pain, has become a significant public health concern as it is increasingly mixed with illicit drugs.

Trade data underscores the importance of maintaining strong economic ties between the U.S., Mexico, and Canada. Through September, the U.S. imported $378.9 billion in goods from Mexico, $322.2 billion from China, and $309.3 billion from Canada.

As the U.S. transitions to new leadership, balancing migration, trade, and drug enforcement priorities with its neighbors will remain a key challenge. Whether Trump’s tariff threats will lead to lasting agreements or escalate tensions remains to be seen.