Mexico sends diplomatic note to US over possible new military base near border

IANS April 17, 2025 293 views

Mexico has formally delivered a diplomatic note to the United States expressing concerns about a potential new military base near their shared border. President Claudia Sheinbaum acknowledged the US's sovereign right to make decisions on its territory while emphasizing the need for respect and cooperation. The proposed US military deployment aims to address issues like illegal migration, narcotics trafficking, and border security. Despite potential tensions, Sheinbaum stressed maintaining constructive bilateral relations and focusing on addressing migration's root causes.

"We respect their autonomy, but we expect the same coordination and cooperation on security" - Claudia Sheinbaum
Mexico City, April 17: Mexico has delivered a diplomatic note to the US after reports emerged that Washington is considering establishing a new military base near the shared border to deter irregular migration, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum said.

Key Points

1

Mexico formally protests potential US military border deployment

2

Sheinbaum warns against jurisdictional interference

3

US seeks to address migration and security challenges

4

Diplomatic tensions emerge over border strategy

Speaking at her daily press briefing on Wednesday, Sheinbaum acknowledged that the decision is a sovereign matter for the US on its own territory, but emphasised that it must not impact Mexico or cross into its jurisdiction, Xinhua news agency reported.

"We respect their autonomy, but we expect the same coordination and cooperation on security that we've had so far," she said.

A reporter asked the Mexican President about the US' reported plan to establish a military base on its southern border with Mexico.

The question came after US Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum travelled to New Mexico on Tuesday to "announce the emergency withdrawal and transfer" to the US Army "of administrative jurisdiction over nearly 109,651 acres of federal land along the US-Mexico border," according to an Interior Department statement.

"… The Department of the Army requested the withdrawal and transfer of these lands on an emergency basis to allow for the increase in regular patrols by federal personnel, construction of infrastructure to prevent unlawful entry, disrupt foreign terrorist threats to the US, and to curb illegal cross-border activities, such as unlawful migration, narcotics trafficking, migrant smuggling, and human trafficking," the statement said.

While the specific purpose of the proposed US military deployment remains unclear, Sheinbaum stressed that Mexico is focused on addressing the root causes of migration and expects any action to respect human rights and avoid harming border communities.

The President noted that similar US troop deployments have occurred in the past, and reiterated that Mexico remains in regular communication with Washington to prevent any disruption to bilateral relations.

According to US media, US President Donald Trump sent a memorandum to four federal department heads on April 11 instructing them to allow the military to use and take jurisdiction of federal land along the US-Mexico border, and the Trump administration is evaluating the establishment of a military base along the border.

Reader Comments

M
Maria R.
Interesting how this keeps coming up every few years. I remember similar talks back in 2018. Hope both countries can find a balanced solution that respects sovereignty while keeping border communities safe. 🤝
J
James K.
As someone who lives near the border, I'm concerned about increased militarization. There's got to be better ways to handle migration than sending troops. The humanitarian aspect seems overlooked here.
A
Alejandro V.
President Sheinbaum is handling this diplomatically but firmly. Mexico has every right to be concerned about actions that might affect our territory. The coordination she mentioned is crucial!
T
Teresa M.
While I understand security concerns, I wish both governments would invest more in economic development programs that address migration causes rather than just enforcement. That's the long-term solution.
C
Carlos P.
The article mentions human rights concerns - this is key. Any military presence needs strict oversight to prevent abuses. History shows what happens when that's lacking.
S
Sarah L.
Respectfully, I think Mexico's response is a bit premature. The US hasn't confirmed any base plans yet, just land transfers. Maybe wait for concrete details before protesting? Just my two cents.

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

Leave a Comment

Your email won't be published


Disclaimer: Comments here reflect the author's views alone. Insulting or using offensive language against individuals, communities, religion, or the nation is illegal.

Tags:
US-Mexico Relations Border Security Military Deployment Claudia Sheinbaum Migration Policy Diplomatic Tensions
You May Like!