Trump “Threatens” Mexico and Warns of Actions After Maduro’s Capture

• Trump threatens Mexico
• Sheinbaum rejects intervention
• Mexico condemns military action

U.S. President Donald Trump launched new criticism against Mexico by stating that it will be necessary to “do something” about drug trafficking that—according to him—dominates the country.

The remarks came after the military operation in Venezuela that resulted in the capture of President Nicolás Maduro, whom Trump accuses of leading criminal networks.

Trump claimed that drug cartels “govern” Mexican territory and that this represents a direct threat to U.S. security.

His statements shifted the regional debate, especially amid diplomatic tensions following the operation in Caracas.

Trump Accuses Cartels and Pressures Sheinbaum

During a phone interview with Fox News, Trump insisted that “the cartels govern Mexico; she does not govern,” referring to Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum.

He clarified that he did not intend to send a direct message to the Mexican leader, whom he described as “a friend” and “a good woman.”

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However, Trump said he has “many times” offered to send the U.S. military to combat criminal groups—an offer Sheinbaum has rejected.

Trump argued that drugs killing “hundreds of thousands” of Americans largely enter through the southern border, warning: “We’re going to have to do something with Mexico.”

Background: Designations and Border Tensions

Since returning to power, Trump has described major Mexican cartels as terrorist organizations.

He has also pushed tariffs on Mexican and Canadian exports as retaliation for fentanyl trafficking into the United States.

In response, Sheinbaum has reiterated Mexico’s willingness to cooperate on security and migration—without surrendering national sovereignty.

Maduro’s capture increased diplomatic pressure, raising concerns about potential similar actions on Mexican soil.

Mexico Condemns the Military Operation in Venezuela

The Mexican government issued a statement condemning U.S. military actions in Venezuela as “unilaterally executed” and contrary to the UN Charter.

President Sheinbaum called for “respect for international law” and urged an end to any act she considers aggression against the Venezuelan people.

The statement emphasized that, under Mexico’s foreign policy principles, it is essential to “cease any act of aggression” to prevent regional deterioration.

Sheinbaum reaffirmed that Latin America and the Caribbean are regions built on peace, the peaceful resolution of disputes, and rejection of the use of force.

Mexico Calls for Dialogue and Warns of Regional Risk

In the communiqué, the government insisted that dialogue and negotiation “are the only legitimate and effective paths” to resolve bilateral tensions.

It urged international bodies—especially the UN—to act to prevent an escalation of violence and to create conditions for sustainable peace.

Mexico warned that any military action in the region “seriously endangers stability” and affects civilian populations.

The country also expressed readiness to support mediation efforts aimed at preventing a direct confrontation between the United States and Venezuela.

BREAKING 🚨 Trump warns that it will be necessary to “do something” against drug trafficking in Mexico following the operation in Venezuela. https://t.co/6SpiRNkq9w

— Aristegui Noticias (@AristeguiOnline) January 3, 2026

Mexican Embassy Activates Alerts in Caracas After Maduro’s Capture

The Mexican government reported that its embassy in Caracas is maintaining constant contact with Mexican nationals residing in Venezuela.

Citizens were urged to stay attentive to official information and use established emergency channels.

Authorities reiterated the embassy’s location on Avenida Río de Janeiro, Las Mercedes neighborhood, Caracas.

They also shared the emergency phone number +58 412-2524675 and the email embvenezuela@sre.gob.mx for assistance if needed.