Mexico will reform Constitution in response to cartels as terrorists in the US

Mexico Reinforces Sovereignty with Constitutional Reforms

In a move to safeguard its national sovereignty, Mexico announced sweeping constitutional reforms to curtail foreign interference in its domestic affairs. President Claudia Sheinbaum unveiled these changes at her morning conference, emphasizing the need to protect Mexico from external intrusions in matters of criminal investigation and prosecution.

Response to US Terrorist Designation

These reforms are directly prompted by the US designation of six Mexican cartels as terrorist organizations under the Trump administration. This action raised concerns in Mexico, as it could potentially pave the way for military interventions against these groups or individuals perceived as supporting them.

“what we want to make clear against this designation is that we do not negotiate sovereignty… This cannot be an opportunity from the United States to invade our sovereignty,” insisted Sheinbaum.

Shielding Sovereignty and Collaboration

The proposed constitutional amendments explicitly state that intervention in research and prosecution of criminals will require the express authorization and collaboration of the Mexican State, adhering to national laws. Furthermore, the amendments prohibit foreign intrusion into Mexican territory by land, sea, or airspace.

Addressing Foreign Agent Activities

The reforms build upon existing legislation enacted by former President Andrés Manuel López Obrador, which already limited the activities of foreign agents in Mexico. These prior laws mandated notification to the Mexican government about all movements of foreign agents, a measure that heightened anxieties among US officials due to the meaningful infiltration of criminal elements within MexicoS power structures.

Strengthening Penalties for Arms Trafficking

Another significant aspect of the reforms focuses on curbing the flow of weapons into Mexico. The amendments propose harsher penalties, including preventive detention, for both nationals and foreigners involved in the manufacturing, distribution, or illegal transfer of weapons within Mexican territory.

This provision is directly aimed at addressing the issue of arms trafficking from the united States, as over 70% of the weapons used by Mexican cartels originate in America.

Holding US Manufacturers Accountable

president Sheinbaum underscored mexico’s demand for accountability from American manufacturers and distributors of weapons, accusing them of complicity with Mexican organized crime groups.

Mexico’s constitutional reforms demonstrate a resolute commitment to safeguarding national sovereignty and autonomy. By strengthening legal frameworks against foreign interference and tackling the illicit arms trade, Mexico aims to enhance its ability to combat organized crime and protect its citizens.

What are the specific concerns Mexico has regarding the U.S. designation of Mexican cartels as terrorist organizations, and how do these concerns relate to Mexico’s concerns over sovereignty?

Interview with Carlos Villaseñor on Mexico’s constitutional Reforms

Reasserting Sovereignty in the face of Foreign Intervention

Archyde News: Carlos, thank you for joining us today. As a renowned expert in international affairs and Mexican politics, could you help our readers understand the recent constitutional reforms from Mexico’s viewpoint?

Carlos Villaseñor: Of course. mexico’s latest constitutional amendments are a direct response to perceived threats to its sovereignty, largely stemming from the U.S. designation of Mexican cartels as terrorist organizations.

U.S. Designation and Mexican Concerns

Archyde News: This U.S. designation raised eyebrows south of the border. Can you elaborate on Mexico’s concerns?

Carlos Villaseñor: Indeed, Mexico’s primary concern is preventing the U.S. from using this designation as a pretext for military intervention on mexican soil, which would clearly violate Mexican sovereignty. President Sheinbaum has been explicit in her statement that Mexico does not negotiate sovereignty.

New Provisions for Sovereignty and Cooperation

Archyde News: The reforms are explicit about requiring express authorization and collaboration with the Mexican state for international intervention. Can you tell us more about these changes?

Carlos Villaseñor: the reforms aim to shield Mexican territory and criminal investigations from foreign intervention.They also build upon existing legislation that already limited foreign agent activities. This is about Mexico asserting its right to handle its own internal affairs while continuing to cooperate with international partners in investigating and combating transnational crime.

Stopping Arms Trafficking and Holding Manufacturers Accountable

Archyde News: The reforms also target the flow of weapons into Mexico. How do you see this provision playing out?

Carlos Villaseñor: The harsher penalties for arms trafficking, including preventive detention, are intended to curb the inflow of weapons used by Mexican cartels. Mexico’s demand for accountability from U.S. manufacturers and distributors of weapons is also noteworthy. The U.S. must take more responsibility for the flow of arms into Mexico. After all, roughly 70% of the weapons used by Mexican cartels originate in the U.S.

Looking Ahead: Mexico’s Commitment to Sovereignty and Security

Archyde News: Lastly,Carlos,what do these constitutional reforms say about Mexico’s priorities and stance in the global arena?

Carlos Villaseñor: These reforms are a strong testament to Mexico’s commitment to safeguarding its sovereignty and autonomy. By strengthening legal frameworks against foreign interference and tackling the illicit arms trade, Mexico is reasserting its resolve to combat organized crime and protect its citizens on its own terms.

Thank you for your time, Carlos.