Should Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum Keep a 'Cool Head' After US Blames Her for LA Protests?

Synopsis
In light of accusations from US officials, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum underscores the necessity of maintaining a cool demeanor in US relations. This article explores her firm denial of claims regarding her role in Los Angeles migrant protests and her commitment to defending Mexicans' rights both domestically and abroad.
Key Takeaways
- Maintain a cool head in international relations.
- President Sheinbaum firmly denies encouraging protests.
- Importance of context in political statements.
- Mexican government advocates for rights of citizens abroad.
- 61 arrests connected to protests highlight rising tension.
Mexico City, June 12 (NationPress) Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum emphasized the importance of maintaining a cool head in dealings with the United States, urging that everything be viewed in its proper context. This statement follows remarks from a senior US official who accused her of encouraging migrant protests in Los Angeles, California.
During her routine morning press briefing at the National Palace on Wednesday (Mexico time), Sheinbaum refuted claims that she or the National Regeneration Movement (Morena) were promoting violent demonstrations, a charge brought forth by US Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem and the Mexican political opposition.
Sheinbaum asserted that her recent comments regarding a peaceful protest against a US initiative to impose taxes on remittances had been misrepresented, as reported by the Xinhua news agency.
"We have never advocated for violent protests, not at any point," Sheinbaum stated.
At a White House event, Noem remarked, "Claudia Sheinbaum has come out and encouraged more protests in LA, and I condemn her for that."
In response to US immigration actions, which have led to unrest in Los Angeles, including mass deportations of undocumented migrants, Sheinbaum highlighted that many individuals had been arrested amid rising tensions, particularly after the White House's decision to send troops to manage the situation.
"When the Secretary of Homeland Security made her statement, we promptly declared it as completely false. We have never supported any violent actions in Los Angeles," Sheinbaum asserted.
The president also criticized opposition figures in Mexico who echoed these accusations on social media. While acknowledging their right to dissent, Sheinbaum pointed out that they were attempting to create a fraudulent conflict between the United States and Mexico, labeling such actions as unpatriotic.
She mentioned that 61 Mexicans had been arrested in connection with the Los Angeles protests, reiterating that the government's stance is to always advocate for the rights of Mexicans, whether domestically or abroad.
"Our foremost duty is to protect Mexicans. Secondly, we must conduct ourselves responsibly and with a cool head in our relations with the United States. Lastly, all Mexicans should support their fellow citizens who are facing challenges in the US," Sheinbaum concluded.
Finally, she mentioned her intent to discuss with US Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau the contributions of hardworking Mexicans living in the US and the acknowledgment of their value to the US economy.