Mexico—Friend, Enemy, Neutral, or Something Else?

After years of U. S. leniency, Mexico is taking advantage of open borders, the drug trade, and remittances, prompting the need for America to enforce stricter measures and regain control. Recent incidents, such as Mexican nationals allegedly linked to cartels shooting an American, raise concerns about Mexico's perception of U. S. tolerance towards potential violence against its citizens.

Mexico's refusal to allow a U. S. plane to land and return apprehended illegal aliens indicates a belief that the U. S. will continue to allow the flow of illegal immigration without consequence. The Biden administration's perceived appeasement has led to Mexico believing it can send many of its impoverished citizens into the U. S. while ignoring the drug crisis, primarily from fentanyl, which has been responsible for around 75,000 American deaths annually. The cartels mask fentanyl as less harmful drugs, exacerbating this problem.

Mexico benefits from about $63 billion in remittances sent by its citizens living in the U. S. , an amount that significantly supports its economy. Much of this comes from U. S. taxpayers indirectly, as local and federal governments provide services that allow illegal residents to send money home. The trade deficit with Mexico has grown from $50 billion to $160 billion over twenty years, excluding remittances and drug profits.

Despite the negative impact of these policies, Mexican politicians often disregard the consequences of illegal immigration and drug trafficking. Former Mexican President López Obrador once praised illegal immigration instead of addressing the reasons behind it.

To counter Mexico’s problematic policies, the U. S. should change its approach by publicly affirming relations while taking firm actions against illegal immigration, such as arranging for apprehended aliens to be returned to Mexico. A reasonable tax on remittances and tariffs on imports could help correct the economic imbalance stemming from this unequal relationship. It is suggested that respecting U. S. laws and interests will encourage Mexico to become a more cooperative partner, rather than viewing the U. S. as a soft target. 

https://amgreatness.com/2025/01/30/mexico-friend-enemy-neutral-or-something-else/