Mexican authorities apprehended Francisco Javier Román-Bardales, a top MS-13 leader and FBI Ten Most Wanted Fugitive, on the Teocelo-Baxtla highway in Veracruz. The arrest, reportedly resulting in his transfer to Mexico City and subsequent deportation to the US, followed accusations of directing MS-13 activities across North and Central America and involvement in numerous violent crimes. Román-Bardales faces US charges including conspiracy to support terrorism and racketeering. A $250,000 reward had been offered for his capture.
Read More
In response to the U.S. designation of Mexican drug cartels as foreign terrorist organizations, President Sheinbaum announced proposed constitutional reforms to safeguard Mexico’s sovereignty. These reforms would prohibit foreign intervention in Mexican affairs and investigations without explicit Mexican authorization and collaboration. The proposals also include strengthening existing laws restricting foreign agents’ operations within Mexico and imposing harsher penalties on foreigners involved in the illegal arms trade. Sheinbaum’s Morena party controls Congress, increasing the likelihood of these reforms’ passage.
Read More
Migrants stranded by Trump’s decisions are encountering a surge in hostility within Mexico. It’s a complex situation, far from a simple case of blaming one person or nation. The initial perception that Mexicans have always been sympathetic towards migrants is challenged by some accounts; experiences differ greatly, and the presence of large numbers of migrants from other Central and South American countries has strained resources and patience in certain areas. This isn’t about inherent racism, but rather the pressure placed on communities by an influx of people who, while perhaps not initially intending to settle permanently, are now effectively stuck.
The frustration expressed by some Mexicans stems from the fact that these migrants, while attempting to reach the United States, are now effectively stranded in Mexico.… Continue reading
In response to Trump’s suggestion to rename the Gulf of Mexico, President Sheinbaum retorted by proposing to rename North America “Mexican America,” highlighting the historical precedent and the Gulf’s longstanding name. This witty response, shared widely on social media, showcased a potential approach to navigating the complex U.S.-Mexico relationship. While experts suggest humor can be a strategic tool, Sheinbaum has also demonstrated a willingness to engage seriously on critical issues like trade and immigration, adopting a firm stance against tariffs while maintaining a more flexible approach to deportation. Her actions suggest a blend of assertive diplomacy and pragmatic compromise in dealing with the incoming U.S. administration.
Read More
In response to President-elect Trump’s proposed renaming of the Gulf of Mexico, Mexico’s President Claudia Sheinbaum countered by suggesting a return to the historical name “America Mexicana,” referencing its use on a 1607 map and in Mexico’s Constitution of Apatzingán. Sheinbaum’s proposal encompasses a large swathe of territory including parts of present-day U.S., Mexico, and Canada. This counter-proposal followed Trump’s earlier suggestion and also served to refute his claims about Mexico’s governance being controlled by drug cartels. Sheinbaum asserted that the Mexican people, not drug cartels, hold the power.
Read More
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum refutes Donald Trump’s claim that she promised to close the Mexico-US border, clarifying that their conversation focused on Mexico’s comprehensive strategy to manage migration while respecting human rights. Sheinbaum emphasized Mexico’s commitment to maintaining open communication and cooperation, contrasting this with Trump’s assertion of a border closure agreement. Trump, however, maintains his previous stance, citing concerns about undocumented immigration and threatening import taxes on Mexican and Canadian goods unless stricter border control measures are implemented. Recent data indicates a significant decrease in unauthorized border crossings between October 2023 and the present.
Read More
President-elect Trump announced that Mexico’s President Sheinbaum agreed to halt immigration across the southern border, a claim Sheinbaum later clarified. Sheinbaum stated that Mexico’s strategy focuses on managing migration within the country, not closing borders. Trump’s announcement followed a phone call where the two leaders also discussed drug trafficking. Trump previously threatened 25% tariffs on Mexican imports if immigration and drug flow weren’t controlled. Sheinbaum warned against escalating trade tensions.
Read More
John Q. Hosedrinker 
Matt Underwood