President-elect Donald Trump is already influencing U. S. border security measures with Mexico and Canada before taking office. He has threatened to impose a 25 percent tariff on goods from these countries unless they take concrete steps to prevent illegal immigration and drug trafficking into the U. S.
In a Truth Social post from November 26, Trump highlighted the urgency of the situation, noting the large number of people crossing the borders, including a caravan moving from Mexico. He asserted that as one of his first executive orders, he will implement these tariffs if both countries do not address the issue of illegal crossings and drug influx, particularly Fentanyl. Trump believes both nations have the ability to resolve these problems and warned that they would face severe economic consequences if they do not comply.
Following Trump's statements, both Mexico and Canada have reportedly begun to respond. On November 27, Trump shared that he spoke with Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo, who agreed to help manage migration from Mexico into the U. S. They discussed closing the southern border and tackling the drug problem together, indicating a productive conversation aimed at collaboration.
On November 30, Trump had an in-person meeting with Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, during which they addressed shared concerns regarding Fentanyl, illegal immigration, trade, and energy issues. Trump emphasized that the U. S. will not tolerate the harm caused by drug cartels and stressed the need for both countries to work together to combat the drug epidemic affecting American families.
The threatened tariffs have made both Mexico and Canada keen to cooperate, as they have significant trade relations with the U. S. In 2023, the trade deficit with Mexico was $152. 4 billion and with Canada was $64 billion. Initial reactions included concerns over retaliatory tariffs, but both neighbors have already engaged in discussions with Trump, showing readiness to address U. S. concerns.
Trump's approach demonstrates a willingness to use tariffs as leverage for ensuring that neighboring countries take action in securing U. S. borders. His strong stance appears to have prompted Mexico and Canada to act quickly, showing that decisive leadership can lead to tangible diplomatic results, even before inauguration. Robert Romano, the Vice President of Public Policy at Americans for Limited Government Foundation, underscores that economic power can lead to better cooperation from other nations.
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