Politics
Mexico's Senate unanimously approved US military entry for joint counter-narcotics training (JCET). Aimed at boosting special ops skills against cartels, the move navigates sovereignty concerns, emphasizing cooperation without subordination amid historical sensitivities.
United States
US intel: Cartels escalate IED violence in Mexico, fuel US fentanyl deaths (>52k) w/ Chinese supplies. Migrants exploited. Independent fentanyl producers grow. Border encounters down, but threat persists.
Crime
Mexico federal blitz: 854 arrests, 1708 guns, 23+ tons drugs, 508 vehicles seized since Feb 5. Major cartel disruption includes dismantling meth labs, finding huge weed plantation, seizing cash and explosives across several states.
Mexico City
Mexico City restaurant corruption: Hundreds bribe officials ("moches") monthly to skip rules, creating unfairness and eroding trust. This widespread payoff system harms honest businesses and demands strict controls and accountability.
business
Mexican Feb exports fell 2.9% YoY ($49.28bn), hit by automotive (-15.2%) & oil (-24.4%) declines. US-bound shipments dipped slightly (-0.2%), while exports elsewhere fell sharply (-9.5%). Agri sales also down (-6.1%). Concerns over economy & US trade policy remain.
United States
US spy agencies NGA & NRO use satellite surveillance on the Mexico border for Trump's immigration crackdown. This domestic use of military intel tools, usually aimed overseas, raises privacy concerns for citizens near the border.
Oaxaca
Violence rocks Oaxaca: 9 missing tourists found dead, 5 men killed on highways. Tourism sector fears cancellations in Huatulco and other spots. Promoter downplays events, insists area is safe, urging visitors to come.
United States
Trump praised Mexico's anti-drug/migration efforts, yet new tariffs loom (Apr 2). Ambassador nominee Johnson noted cooperation. Mexico's President Sheinbaum countered tariff justification with data showing reduced fentanyl flow. Mixed signals create uncertainty.
History
In 1473, Tlatelolco's King Moquihuix plotted against his brother-in-law, Tenochtitlan's ruler Axayácatl. Warned, Axayácatl foiled the surprise attack. After a battle dubbed "Dirty War," Moquihuix refused peace, leading Axayácatl to formally declare war, sealing Tlatelolco's fate.
Crime
Ex-Gulf Cartel leader Mario Ramírez Treviño ("El Pelón") died in US prison March 13, before sentencing. Captured in 2013 & extradited, he became a US witness against rivals like "El Menchito." His cause of death wasn't stated.
business
Mexico's Mayan Train fuels a SE real estate boom. Property values rise >10% yearly (Cancun +13.6%). It attracts long-term investment, spurs luxury/sustainable projects in Yucatan, and draws dedicated financial backing.
Tulum
Tulum's Lonitas recycles used ad banners from big brands (Coca-Cola, etc.) into backpacks and bags. This circular economy project gives waste a second life, reduces landfill plastic, employs local families, and pushes brands toward sustainability.