Mexico to Deploy Troops to US Border in Exchange for Delay on Tariffs
Mexico has agreed to deploy 10,000 troops to the U.S.-Mexico border in exchange for a one-month delay on President Donald Trump's threatened tariffs, announced Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum.
Sheinbaum made the announcement on social media just about 12 hours before the tariffs were set to take effect. During their conversation, Trump and Sheinbaum discussed Mexico's increased efforts to combat drug trafficking into the U.S., while the U.S. will enhance efforts to prevent firearms from flowing into Mexico.
Sheinbaum indicated that discussions on broader trade and security issues were also beginning between U.S. and Mexican officials.
Trump confirmed the agreement on Truth Social, describing his call with Sheinbaum as a very friendly conversation.
During the call, Trump stated: "I just spoke with President Claudia Sheinbaum of Mexico. It was a very friendly conversation wherein she agreed to immediately supply 10,000 Mexican soldiers on the Border separating Mexico and the United States. These soldiers will be specifically designated to stop the flow of fentanyl, and illegal migrants into our Country."
Trump further mentioned, "We further agreed to immediately pause the anticipated tariffs for a one month period during which we will have negotiations headed by Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Secretary of Treasury Scott Bessent, and Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick, and high-level Representatives of Mexico."
This decision follows Trump's announcement of 25% tariffs on Mexico and Canada and 10% tariffs on China. Although Trump spoke with Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, no agreement was reached, but they plan to talk again later.
The tariffs are set to take effect at midnight on Tuesday.
Trudeau responded to the tariffs by encouraging Canadians to buy Canadian products: "Now is the time to choose products made right here in Canada."
Trump also discussed the possibility of cutting off aid to South Africa after its president signed a controversial land seizure measure during a press exchange.
