In a bid to stave off heavy tariffs from the United States, Mexico has extradited several high-profile drug cartel leaders to the US, including Rafael Caro Quintero and the Treviño brothers of the Zeta cartel. This move comes amidst tense negotiations aimed at preventing a 25% tariff on Mexican imports proposed by President Trump.
These tariffs threaten the economic stability between Mexico and the US, particularly impacting their intertwined automotive industries. Despite Mexico's efforts, including deploying National Guard troops and tightening border controls, the Sinaloa cartel's continued activity casts doubt on the effectiveness of these measures in influencing Trump's decision.
The potential tariffs would violate the USMCA agreement, significantly affecting trade relations. Mexican authorities have expressed willingness to collaborate with the US in combating drug trafficking, but firmly oppose US military intervention in their territory.
As the situation unfolds, Mexico's strategic extradition gesture remains a pivotal point in the complex trade and diplomatic discussions with the US.
