During her morning press conference on February 10, 2025, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum engaged in a heated exchange with Proceso journalist Dalila Escobar regarding the presence of General Salvador Cienfuegos at the recent Marcha de la Lealtad event.
📌 Key Takeaways from the Press Conference:
✔ Sheinbaum defended Cienfuegos’ exoneration, citing a lack of evidence in Mexico and the U.S.
✔ She insisted that Cienfuegos’ participation in the event followed military protocol.
✔ She pushed back against the journalist’s questioning, saying, “Do your research properly.”
The confrontation highlighted ongoing tensions surrounding Mexico’s security policies and its handling of former high-ranking military officials.
Sheinbaum’s Justification for Cienfuegos’ Exoneration
When questioned about Cienfuegos’ presence at the military ceremony, Sheinbaum firmly dismissed claims that his participation was controversial.
💬 Sheinbaum’s Response:
“He was invited because he was a former director of the Military College. That is standard protocol.”
She also reaffirmed that Cienfuegos was cleared of all charges, both in the United States and Mexico, after being arrested in Los Angeles in 2020 on drug trafficking and money laundering allegations.
💬 Sheinbaum on the Investigation:
“No sufficient evidence was found. That is why he was released.”
However, Escobar pressed further, questioning whether Mexico’s Fiscalía General de la República (FGR) had actually conducted an investigation. Sheinbaum, visibly frustrated, redirected the question to the prosecutor’s office while also criticizing media coverage:
“The media often discuss topics without complete information. I ask you to do proper research.”
Tensions Over Mexico’s Security Strategy
The exchange intensified when Escobar brought up Sheinbaum’s security policy and whether she planned to make changes to AMLO’s approach. Sheinbaum pushed back, directing questions to the security cabinet meeting scheduled for the next day.
📌 Key Points on Sheinbaum’s Security Strategy:
✔ She reinforced her commitment to AMLO’s policies, despite speculation about potential shifts.
✔ She stated that her administration would continue prioritizing non-violent solutions while maintaining security forces.
✔ She dismissed claims that her government was distancing itself from López Obrador’s strategy.
💬 Sheinbaum’s Reaffirmation of AMLO’s Legacy:
“We are not distancing ourselves from the previous administration.”
Sheinbaum Addresses Call With Trump on Border Security
Another critical topic during the press conference was Sheinbaum’s recent call with Donald Trump, which centered on border security and the deployment of Mexico’s National Guard.
✔ She denied withholding information about the discussions.
✔ She emphasized that Mexico is strengthening security cooperation with the U.S.
✔ She reiterated that Mexico’s strategy focuses on addressing the root causes of migration and crime.
📌 What This Means for U.S.-Mexico Relations:
✔ Trump’s harsh stance on border security could pressure Sheinbaum into more aggressive measures.
✔ Mexico’s National Guard deployment may become a key issue in bilateral negotiations.
✔ Future talks could shape migration policies and cross-border crime strategies.
A Presidency Under Scrutiny
The tense exchange with the press and Sheinbaum’s firm stance on security matters indicate that her administration is already facing intense scrutiny over its handling of military figures, security policies, and U.S.-Mexico relations.
📌 What to Watch Next:
✔ Will Sheinbaum’s administration maintain AMLO’s security policies, or will adjustments be made?
✔ Will Mexico’s government provide more transparency on the Cienfuegos investigation?
✔ How will Sheinbaum navigate U.S. pressure on border security and cartel-related issues?With security and military accountability at the forefront of Mexico’s political landscape, Sheinbaum’s approach in the coming months will define the next phase of her presidency.
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