Marco Rubio Talks About Advances in Security Cooperation

Washington, D.C., February 17, 2025. Despite initial frictions, Mexico and United States are advancing in cooperation on border security. The main emphasis is on curbing the trafficking of weapons and drugs.

The U.S. Secretary of State, Marco Rubio, highlighted the importance of collaborating with Mexico to address security and migration issues.

In an interview on "The Clay Travis and Buck Sexton Show", Rubio emphasized the urgency of working with Mexico to curb arms trafficking, the basis of criminal power.

He also noted that both countries are working to stop the flow of fentanyl, a synthetic drug responsible for a severe public health crisis in the United States.

Migration and border security

Another key topic in his statements was illegal migration. Rubio acknowledged that the deployment of 10,000 National Guard members at the border by Mexico has reduced illegal crossings.

This effort aims not only to control migration but also to improve security along the 1,864 miles (3,000 kilometers) of border shared by both countries.

Mexico's response

The president of Mexico, Claudia Sheinbaum, attempted to show a conciliatory stance in response to Rubio's statements. In a press conference, she defended the cooperation with U.S. and emphasized the mutual respect for sovereignty, a usual response from the government to deflect criticism about its inaction on security.

Sheinbaum promised results in border security, but violence and drug trafficking continue to grow. So far, her measures have been ineffective.

Future prospects

Rubio made it clear that U.S. is pressuring Mexico on security. The lack of firm actions from Sheinbaum's government allows organized crime to advance.

Washington demands real cooperation against drug trafficking, but the Morena government prioritizes its image over effectiveness.

If Mexico doesn't fulfill its commitments, United States could take unilateral measures such as imposing tariffs or sanctions, which would affect the commercial and diplomatic relationship between both countries.