In a development that underscores ongoing tensions over border security and trade, U.S. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem disclosed that she recently presented a list of border security measures to President Claudia Sheinbaum during a meeting at the National Palace. The proposals, reportedly aligned with priorities from former President Donald Trump’s administration, include enhanced control at the Mexico-Guatemala border, intensified screening of air cargo, and the sharing of biometric databases.
Speaking to Fox News after the Friday meeting, Secretary Noem stated, “I gave him a list of things that President Trump would love to see [implemented].” Her comments came in response to a question from host Bret Baier regarding the efforts of the Sheinbaum administration to combat drug cartel activities.
According to Noem, the suggestions are part of a broader dialogue on border security, with an eye toward influencing future tariff decisions against Mexico. “President Trump is clear. He doesn’t want people to just keep talking. He wants to see action, and [Sheinbaum] has the opportunity to do some things that I will report to the President about, and we will see if we can address the tariff situation that his people may be facing,” Noem added.
A key point of contention in the proposals is the request for the sharing of biometric information. Noem emphasized that while this measure could stir controversy in Mexico, President Sheinbaum appears open to discussing the possibility. “I specifically asked her to share biometric information with us, and she’s willing to discuss it. Although it would be a bit controversial in her country, she’s making a good-faith effort,” she said, referring to data related to travelers and migrants.
The exchange between Noem and Sheinbaum highlights the complex interplay between border security, trade policies, and international cooperation. As the discussion evolves, both U.S. and Mexican officials appear to be weighing the implications of implementing these recommendations in a climate marked by heightened security concerns and economic pressures.
The proposals now set the stage for further deliberations, as U.S. officials consider how these measures might impact tariff negotiations with Mexico—a key point of leverage in broader trade discussions. The coming days will likely reveal whether the Sheinbaum administration can align its policies with the security expectations laid out by its U.S. counterpart, potentially reshaping the future of cross-border relations in the region.
