Mexico’s President Declines US Orders to Fight Drug Cartels, Brands it ‘Mexico First’ Policy

A Stride for Saber Sovereignty

In a move that surprised international observers today, Mexico’s President has decisively called a halt to fighting drug cartels at the specific order of the United States, terming this radical strategy as ‘Mexico First’ policy.

The President maintained his stance at a press conference, underlining that his administration would no longer succumb to international pressure, especially from his northern neighbor. Instead, they would align their strategies according to issues that primarily affect Mexico’s interests. This breakaway policy seems to emerge at a time when Mexico aims to rewrite its international relationships, particularly with the United States.

‘Mexico First’ Policy: A New Blueprint

Championing the Mexico First policy, the incumbent President made it clear that their fight against drug cartels will be purely on their own terms and not dictated by any external agency. This major policy shift entails prioritizing local law enforcement strategies, economic prosperity, and most importantly, Mexico’s substance abuse crisis.

“Mexico cannot continue its efforts against drug cartels solely directed by US interests. We must focus on a strategy that takes into account our national needs,†he quoted. Stressing on home-grown solutions, he expressed a need to focus on reducing domestic demand for illicit substances, recognizing it as a significant driver of drug cartel operations.

Fostering Nationalist Sentiment

Chalking out a roadmap for implementation, the Mexican President’s decision has received mixed reactions. It certainly has sparked a nationalist sentiment amongst portions of the local populace happy to see their government standing up to the United States. However, critics argue that his stance may complicate bilateral relations, causing potential backslides in Mexico’s international cooperation against organized crime.

Despite these critiques, Mexico’s federal government has pledged to move forward, stating that this new policy aligns with the best interest of its citizens. Decisions on drug policy and enforcement will now be majorly influenced by local needs and concerns, differentiating them from previous approaches that erred towards international directives.

With extensive global eyes on this situation, it remains to be seen how the Mexico First policy will play out in national and international arenas.

Tags: Mexico, Drug Cartels