U.S. Ambassador Critiques Mexico's Security Policy

U.S. Ambassador to Mexico Ken Salazar has harshly criticized Mexico's security policies, labeling them a 'failure' and highlighting a significant increase in violence attributed to drug cartels. Salazar noted that the previous president, Andrés Manuel López Obrador, rejected U.S. aid, including $32 million for police training, and described the government's 'hugs not bullets' strategy as ineffective. In response, newly inaugurated President Claudia Sheinbaum defended her predecessor's approach, asserting that U.S.-Mexico relations should not be based on subordination. Meanwhile, tensions are also rising in trade relations between Canada and Mexico over tariff alignments on Chinese goods, with Ontario Premier Doug Ford threatening to terminate the USMCA agreement if changes are not made. The recent political dynamics come at a critical time, as incoming President Donald Trump has indicated a tough stance on trade negotiations. Both diplomatic and trade relations are under scrutiny, with concerns over security and economic balance looming large.