Mexico Urges Calm Amid Trump Border Crackdown, Reveals Repatriation Strategy

Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum urged for calm at a press conference on Tuesday, addressing a series of executive actions taken by U.S. President Donald Trump against Mexico. On his first day in office, Trump declared various “cartels and other organizations as foreign terrorist organizations” and announced a national emergency at the southern border.

One of the significant moves included taking the CBP One app offline. This app, which had provided a legal pathway for asylum-seeking migrants, facilitated 936,000 appointments since its expansion for asylum processing. The abrupt cancellation of appointments raises concerns about the future of many seeking refuge.

In response to these developments, Sheinbaum emphasized, “It is important to have a cool head. We will always act in defense of our sovereignty and our independence.” This statement highlights Mexico’s intention to react thoughtfully amid escalating tensions with the U.S.

To further support those affected by recent U.S. policies, Mexico initiated the “Mexico Embraces You” welfare program. This program is designed for individuals deported from the U.S. during Trump’s administration and will be managed by the Ministry of the Interior. As part of the initiative, officials plan to set up nine repatriation care centers across border states including Baja California and Sonora.

These centers aim to assist deportees by offering employment resources, social services, and access to pensions for seniors and individuals with disabilities. Additionally, student scholarships will be made available through Mexico’s Social Security Institute. Each center will provide essentials such as SIM cards, internet access, and food, with security ensured by the Mexican armed forces.

The program also includes the provision of a “Paisano Welfare Card,” which will offer 2,000 Mexican pesos (approximately $100) to help deported nationals return safely to their communities.

Mexican Interior Secretary Rosa Icela Rodríguez announced that preparations for repatriating citizens had been in progress for months. “The government has a National Repatriation Strategy that ensures a dignified reception and instills confidence in the opportunities awaiting our compatriots,” Rodríguez stated during Sheinbaum’s conference.

Collaborating with Mexico’s National Population Registry, Rodríguez emphasized efforts to secure vital documents like birth certificates for deported individuals. “Migrants are not criminals; the government of Mexico is ready to receive them with open arms,” she affirmed, underscoring a commitment to facilitating their reintegration.

Trump’s approach also included the threat of imposing 25% tariffs on Mexican imports in response to illegal immigration and the influx of fentanyl. He further signed an executive order aimed at ending birthright citizenship, a move that is currently facing multiple legal challenges, as critics argue it contradicts constitutional rights.