In a significant escalation of diplomatic tensions, the United States has begun revoking visas of Mexican politicians suspected of ties to drug cartels, including members of President Claudia Sheinbaum’s ruling Morena party. The move is part of the Trump administration’s intensified efforts to combat corruption and organized crime in Mexico.
The U.S. State Department, citing Section 212 of the Immigration and Nationality Act, has targeted several high-ranking officials. Among those affected is Marina del Pilar Ávila, the governor of Baja California, who confirmed that both she and her husband had their U.S. tourist visas revoked. Ávila emphasized that the revocation does not imply any formal accusation or investigation against them.
President Sheinbaum has criticized the lack of transparency surrounding the visa cancellations, stating that the Mexican government was not formally informed of the reasons behind the U.S. actions. She has called for respect and open communication between the two nations.
U.S. officials have indicated that the list of individuals facing visa revocations includes leaders of the Morena party, state governors, and political figures associated with former President Andrés Manuel López Obrador. These measures are based on intelligence reports alleging connections to drug trafficking activities.
The Trump administration’s actions have strained U.S.-Mexico relations, with the Mexican government expressing concern over unilateral decisions impacting its officials. Analysts suggest that these developments could have broader implications for bilateral cooperation on security and trade.
