Mexico US Near Security Deal, Tariff Talks Extend

Mexico and the United States are nearing a significant security agreement aimed at combating drug trafficking and violence, which could pave the way for broader trade negotiations. Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum highlighted the pact would involve increased intelligence sharing, efforts to reduce fentanyl precursor chemicals, and stricter controls on gun flows from the U.S. to Mexico. Following a phone call between President Sheinbaum and President Trump, a 90-day extension was secured to delay a planned 30% U.S. tariff on Mexican goods, maintaining the current 25% tariff for now; this extension serves as a tactical pause amid ongoing economic and security tensions. The U.S. has linked tariff relief to Mexico's progress on security and migration controls, while Mexico has pushed back on vague U.S. demands regarding non-tariff barriers and emphasized sovereignty concerns, rejecting U.S. military intervention but supporting enhanced joint law enforcement cooperation. Mexico's Economy Minister Marcelo Ebrard noted that intellectual property issues and anti-trust regulation are key topics for the upcoming USMCA trade review, reflecting broader challenges in U.S.-Mexico economic relations. These developments underscore a complex interplay of security, economic, and diplomatic efforts shaping the future of U.S.-Mexico relations under President Trump.