Trump Claims Sheinbaum Afraid of Cartels, Rejects US Intervention

Tensions have arisen between U.S. President Donald Trump and Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum after Trump publicly confirmed that he offered to send U.S. troops into Mexico to combat drug cartels, an offer Sheinbaum firmly rejected on grounds of Mexican sovereignty. Trump has criticized Sheinbaum for her refusal, claiming she is 'so afraid of the cartels that she can't even think straight,' though he has also described her as a 'lovely woman.' Sheinbaum, meanwhile, emphasized that while the two countries can collaborate on security issues, any military intervention by the U.S. on Mexican soil is unacceptable, reiterating the importance of national sovereignty. Both leaders acknowledged ongoing cooperation in intelligence sharing and border security, but Sheinbaum has drawn a clear line against foreign military involvement. The exchange marks a rare moment of public tension between the two leaders, who have otherwise maintained a cooperative relationship despite disagreements over tariffs and border management. The dispute highlights broader challenges in U.S.-Mexico relations regarding strategies to combat drug trafficking and cartel violence.