Donald Trump promised during the US election campaign that he would virtually close the border with Mexico. The president of Mexico has now promised him by phone that he will “stop” immigration to the US. Mexican head of state Claudia Sheinbaum promptly objected.
Sheinbaum told internet service X that her country has no plans to close its borders. Mexico’s position is not “to close the borders, but to build bridges between governments and between peoples.” She explained her country’s strategy to Trump: Mexico takes care of the migrants “before they reach the border.”
Sheinbaum had already reported an “excellent” call to X before Trump’s comments. Trump also expressed positivity, writing about a “great conversation” with the president.
Sheinbaum initially stated that he had spoken with Trump about Mexico’s “strategy” regarding migration. She provided no information about closing the border. According to Sheinbaum, the two also discussed increasing cooperation on security issues and Mexico’s efforts “to prevent the use of fentanyl.”
Allies should be hit with tariffs
On his first day in office, Trump announced an aggressive trade policy with high tariffs against neighboring countries Canada and Mexico, but also against his biggest rival China. Imports from Canada and Mexico would be subject to a 25 percent tariff, and goods from China would be subject to an additional 10 percent surcharge, he explained Monday evening.
The Republican, who will begin his second term as US president on January 20, linked the announced tariff increases to the demand that the three countries stop drug trafficking and illegal migration to the US. Trump had made illegal migration one of his key campaign issues and promised to carry out a mass deportation with the help of the US military.
Mexico: Tariffs reach US consumers
Mexican Economy Minister Marcelo Ebrard said Wednesday that “400,000 jobs” in the US would be at risk if Trump follows through on his tariff threats. He cited a study based on data from U.S. automakers with production sites in Mexico.
In addition, U.S. consumers will be hit hard, Ebrard said, pointing to the market for pickup SUVs, most of which are made in Mexico. The announced rates would increase the cost of a new vehicle by $3,000, he continued, calling it a “shot in the foot.”
Source: Krone
I am Ida Scott, a journalist and content author with a passion for uncovering the truth. I have been writing professionally for Today Times Live since 2020 and specialize in political news. My career began when I was just 17; I had already developed a knack for research and an eye for detail which made me stand out from my peers.
