INSUBCONTINENT EXCLUSIVE:
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum has urged Mexico, the United States, and Canada to investigate fentanyl trafficking from production to
United States distribution
Her proposal comes amid escalating tensions over the opioid crisis.This crisis caused nearly 70% of the 107,000 overdose deaths in the
Former President Donald Trump has linked the issue to Mexico and Canada, threatening 25% tariffs on their exports unless stronger actions
are taken.These tariffs, temporarily delayed until March 4, have added urgency to the debate
Sheinbaum questioned why investigations focus solely on Mexico and Canada while ignoring potential fentanyl smuggling through United States
domestic factors fueling the crisis.Fentanyl, a synthetic opioid up to 50 times stronger than heroin, is largely produced by Mexican cartels
$1.3 billion in border security measures but plays a smaller role in United States fentanyl trafficking, accounting for less than 1% of
seizures at its border.The crisis underscores broader issues in North American relations
Sheinbaum criticized United States gun trafficking into Mexico, which fuels cartel violence responsible for nearly 480,000 deaths since
2006.As negotiations continue, her administration seeks a balanced approach that addresses both supply chains and demand while fostering
regional cooperation.This trilateral challenge highlights the need for coordinated strategies
