On November 7, 2024, a significant political controversy erupted in Mexico, centering around Marko Antonio Cortés Mendoza, the President of the National Action Party (PAN). Claudia Sheinbaum, the President of Mexico, accused Cortés of being a “traitor to the nation” after he asked former U.S. President Donald Trump to support Mexico in classifying the crime of narcoterrorism.
During her morning press conference, Sheinbaum criticized Cortés, expressing disbelief at his request and labeling his actions as making a mockery of the situation. She questioned both the coherence and intent behind his appeal to Trump and challenged the opposition’s shifting stance on social programs.
While not committing to formal accusations against Cortés, Sheinbaum referenced Article 123 of the Federal Penal Code, which outlines severe penalties for acts that undermine national sovereignty or integrity aimed at subjugating Mexico to foreign powers. “I’m not suggesting formal charges,” she clarified, “but I urge the public to consider the implications of his statements.”
Marko Cortés, meanwhile, defended his stance on social media, urging the urgent classification of narcoterrorism, citing the pain it causes Mexican families. He referred to recent grisly discoveries in the region, emphasizing the need for international collaboration against organized crime.
In response to concerns about sovereignty, Cortés argued that Mexico’s sovereignty is already compromised by rampant cartel activities and called for effective cooperation that respects human rights. He highlighted the potential of coordinating with Trump to address these issues head-on, given Trump’s prior campaign promises to combat drug trafficking.
**Secondary Article:**
**Escalation of Drug-Related Violence in Mexico:**
In recent years, the violence related to drug cartels in Mexico has intensified, prompting urgent discussions about new strategies to address the crisis. Recent reports from across the nation detail numerous violent incidents attributed to organized crime groups vying for control over lucrative drug trafficking corridors.
According to recent data, areas such as Chilpancingo and Acapulco in Guerrero have become hotspots for violent acts, including mass murders and coordinated attacks against law enforcement. The discovery of multiple bodies in Chilpancingo on November 7 highlights the brutal reality faced daily by many communities.
Analysts suggest that the rise in violence is linked to cartel fragmentation and competition following arrests of key leaders. Local and national authorities have been urged to enhance their response strategies, including possible legal reforms and improved cooperation with international allies to effectively combat these operations.
The ongoing debate around narcoterrorism and international intervention brings into focus the precarious balance Mexico must maintain between asserting national sovereignty and seeking external support in its fight against pervasive organized crime.