Trump gives Mexico new ultimatum after threatening to unleash more tariffs on the country
Donald Trump has intensified his tariff conflict with Mexico by offering the country two choices. The former president unveiled his 'Liberation Day' strategy at the White House on April 2, announcing new tariffs for nations worldwide. These tariffs would apply to all countries, regardless of their relationship with America. The plan included a 25 percent tax on all foreign-manufactured vehicles and a 10 percent tariff on imports from every country except those under the USMCA free trade agreement between Mexico, Canada and the US. The reaction to these announcements has been quick and substantial.
Many countries have declared intentions to implement retaliatory tariffs, particularly China, which is currently engaged in an especially intense trade dispute with the United States.
Regarding his earlier arrangement with Mexico in February, Trump suspended the tariffs while seeking to address what he called the "extraordinary threat posed by illegal aliens and drugs, including deadly fentanyl." Mexico's president Claudia Sheinbaum and Trump reached an agreement that could tackle drug trafficking to the US, comprising four key points.
Sheinbaum stated online: "1. Mexico will immediately reinforce the northern border with 10,000 members of the National Guard to prevent drug trafficking from Mexico to the United States, particularly fentanyl. 2. The United States is committed to working to prevent the trafficking of high-powered weapons to Mexico. 3. Our teams will begin working today on two fronts: security and trade. 4. They are pausing tariffs for one month from now."
Now Trump threatens to impose additional tariffs and possibly sanctions on Mexico, claiming the country is "stealing the water from Texas farmers" in violation of a 1944 Water Treaty. Trump accused Mexico of taking over one million acre-feet of water. According to the treaty, Mexico must deliver 1.75 million acre-feet of water to the US from the Rio Grande every five years.
Trump wrote on Truth Social: "Mexico OWES Texas 1.3 million acre-feet of water under the 1944 Water Treaty, but Mexico is unfortunately violating their Treaty obligation. This is very unfair, and it is hurting South Texas Farmers very badly."
Although the five-year cycle concludes in October, Mexico has reportedly sent less than 30 percent of its obligation, according to the International Boundary and Water Commission.
Trump added: "My Agriculture Secretary, Brooke Rollins, is standing up for Texas Farmers, and we will keep escalating consequences, including TARIFFS and, maybe even SANCTIONS, until Mexico honors the Treaty, and GIVES TEXAS THE WATER THEY ARE OWED!"
In response, Sheinbaum tweeted that Mexico has been complying "to the extent water is available" as the country has struggled with three years of drought.
Mexico delivered a proposal on Wednesday that offers quick fixes to the water problem. Sheinbaum confirmed she has instructed her environment, agriculture and foreign ministers to reach out to US officials, expressing confidence that "an agreement will be reached."
