Introduction
In recent years, global politics have increasingly revolved around the whims and intentions of U.S. President Donald Trump, impacting not only the United States but also other countries worldwide. This phenomenon has intensified under Trump’s administration, shrinking the decision-making space for world leaders. Even powerful nations like China and Russia have taken precautions against Trump’s actions, while Europe remains wary of the U.S.’s influence.
The Unique Case of Latin America
Latin America has long been subject to U.S. interventions, including coups, support for puppet governments, illegal blockades, and military interventions. Trump has turned his attention to the region, revitalizing the Monroe Doctrine (which, it’s worth noting, never truly disappeared). This increased pressure has led Latin American voters to choose candidates aligned with Trump’s desires.
- Chosen Candidates: Voters in countries like Chile, Argentina, Ecuador, Peru, Honduras, and Bolivia have elected leaders who mirror Trump’s policies in various areas, such as cutting social programs, labeling migrants as criminals, undermining women’s rights, and marginalizing LGBTIQ+ communities.
- Trump’s True Interests: Contrary to any belief that Trump cares about democracy in Latin America, his interest lies in political and economic dominance. If he genuinely cared about democracy, he wouldn’t have expelled Cuban, Nicaraguan, and Venezuelan migrants fleeing their dictatorships to seek refuge in a nation now sending them back to their oppressive situations.
- Economic Interests in Mexico: Trump’s primary concerns for Mexico are curbing migration and drug trafficking to the north, integrating Mexico’s economy in a way that benefits the U.S. more, and ceasing to defend governments criticized by Washington—be they democratic like Colombia or outright dictatorships.
Claudia Sheinbaum’s Predicament
Mexico City’s Mayor Claudia Sheinbaum faces a delicate situation due to her commitment to the principles inherited from President Andrés Manuel López Obrador. She supports the tyrants of Cuba and Venezuela, even providing economic assistance. However, her defense of Maduro also aims to prevent potential military intervention in Venezuela from affecting Mexico. Despite Trump’s disregard for her pleas, she hopes to establish a line favoring dialogue, which may resonate with political and economic sectors in the U.S. and Europe.
Simultaneously, Sheinbaum must maintain a stable relationship with the White House by carefully choosing her actions and words. Although she has managed this so far, any miscalculation could significantly impact Mexico’s development and expose the flaws of López Obrador’s Fourth Transformation.
