Sheinbaum Critiques Salazar’s Words

President Claudia Sheinbaum questions Ambassador Ken Salazar’s conflicting remarks on Mexico’s security strategy, emphasizing equal partnership without subordination. Tensions between the U.S. and Mexico persist on security policy.

### Sheinbaum Highlights Inconsistencies in Ken Salazar’s Statements

On November 14, 2024, the President of Mexico, Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo, expressed concerns about inconsistent statements made by Kenneth Lee Salazar, the U.S. Ambassador to Mexico. Sheinbaum pointed out that Salazar had made conflicting remarks on several occasions, particularly regarding the Mexican government’s “hugs, not bullets” security strategy. Just the day before, Salazar had mentioned that this approach, initially promoted by former President Andrés Manuel López Obrador, didn’t yield effective results.

The Mexican Ministry of Foreign Affairs sent a diplomatic note to the U.S. Embassy in Mexico expressing surprise at the Ambassador’s comments during a press conference on November 13, 2024. The Mexican government emphasized the importance of cooperation between the two nations without any implications of subordination.

In her press conference at the National Palace, Sheinbaum underscored the need for consistent communications from the U.S. Ambassador. Referencing Salazar’s previous statements about the Federal Judicial reform in Mexico, she noted the confusion resulting from his changing opinions.

She framed the U.S.-Mexico relationship as one of equals, highlighting that while collaboration on key issues such as drug trafficking, arms trade, immigration, and security is crucial due to their shared border and economic ties, it should not entail subordination. The president emphasized the sovereign nature of Mexico in these bilateral engagements.

The press asked Sheinbaum if she plans to engage directly with the Ambassador. She noted that the Foreign Minister, Juan Ramón de la Fuente Ramírez, maintains communication with Ambassador Salazar.

### Further Developments: U.S.-Mexico Tensions Over Security Policy

In recent developments, tensions have continued to simmer over the efficacy of the “hugs, not bullets” strategy, which has been a cornerstone of Mexico’s approach to dealing with crime. Critics both domestically and internationally have voiced concerns over rising violence, attributing part of this failure to the conciliatory policy toward criminal groups.

As the discussions progress, diplomatic channels are being utilized to manage these differences in a productive manner. Analysts suggest that the two countries will need to find a balanced approach to dealing with cross-border security challenges, one that respects Mexico’s independence while addressing shared interests.

This ongoing narrative reflects broader challenges in U.S.-Mexico relations, particularly as both nations navigate changing political landscapes and evolving diplomatic roles. The U.S. Embassy in Mexico City has yet to issue a comprehensive response to the diplomatic note, signaling ongoing behind-the-scenes negotiations.

Stay tuned for more updates as this situation unfolds, highlighting the dynamic nature of international diplomacy between these two neighboring giants.