Following President-elect Donald Trump's tariff threats against both Mexico and Canada due to concerns about migrant and drug flows into the U.S., Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum emphasized the distinct cultural wealth of Mexico compared to Canada. Sheinbaum's comments arose after Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau discussed border issues with Trump during a Mar-a-Lago meeting. Canadian Ambassador Kirsten Hillman underscored the differences between the U.S.-Canada and U.S.-Mexico borders. Sheinbaum, in response, stressed the need for respect for Mexico, particularly from trading partners, and pointed to Canada's own fentanyl challenges, contrasting them with Mexico's cultural richness.

The U.S. reported significantly higher fentanyl seizures and border arrests at the U.S.-Mexico border compared to the U.S.-Canada border. Trump, via Truth Social, announced his intent to impose a 25% tariff on goods from both countries starting January 20th, citing the influx of drugs and illegal immigration. Sheinbaum indicated that in a conversation with Trump, he had acknowledged Mexico's preference for intelligence sharing in counternarcotics efforts. She also affirmed Mexico's commitment to restricting direct U.S. law enforcement intervention within its borders.