Mexico’s President Responds to Trump’s Jibes, Proposes Renaming U.S. Territories
Mexico’s president hit back at Donald Trump’s recent remarks, suggesting the U.S. consider renaming some of its own territories rather than the Gulf of Mexico.
In response to Trump’s statement that the body of water bordering Mexico, the U.S., and the Caribbean should be called the “Gulf of America,” Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum presented historical maps of the Americas during her daily press briefing.
“The name ‘Gulf of Mexico’ has been in use since the early 17th century and is recognized by the United Nations,” Sheinbaum noted. Jokingly, she added that U.S. states such as California and Texas could reclaim their historical name, America Mexicana. “It has a nice ring to it, doesn’t it?” she quipped to reporters in Mexico City.
Trump’s Provocations
At a press conference on Tuesday at his Mar-a-Lago resort, Trump escalated tensions, claiming Mexico is “run by the cartels,” accusing the country of serving as a transit point for undocumented migrants, and reiterating his threat to impose 25% tariffs on Mexican imports.
“We want to get along with everybody, but it takes two to tango,” Trump remarked.
Sheinbaum’s Response
Sheinbaum dismissed Trump’s claims, particularly his characterization of Mexico as being controlled by cartels.
“With all due respect, President Trump is misinformed,” she said, pointing out that Mexico is no longer under the leadership of Felipe Calderón or Genaro García Luna, the latter having been convicted in the U.S. in 2023 for collusion with drug traffickers. “Today, the people govern Mexico,” Sheinbaum declared.
Despite the provocative comments, Sheinbaum struck a hopeful tone about future relations with the incoming U.S. administration. “I remain optimistic that we can maintain a good relationship with President Trump,” she told reporters.
Historical and Diplomatic Undertones
Sheinbaum’s remarks highlight a mix of humor, history, and diplomacy, showing her willingness to stand firm against Trump’s provocations while keeping the door open for cooperation on key issues such as migration and trade.