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Politics
30 January 2025

Sheinbaum Defies U.S. Tariffs And Gulf Renaming

Mexican President challenges Trump's executive orders and Google’s response.

Mexico's President Claudia Sheinbaum is taking a firm stand against U.S. actions concerning both the threat of tariffs on Mexican goods and the controversial renaming of the Gulf of Mexico to the "Gulf of America." During press conferences held earlier this week, she articulated her government's position on these significant issues, emphasizing Mexico's sovereignty and readiness to counteract any potential economic impacts.

Speaking on January 29, 2025, Sheinbaum expressed skepticism about the likelihood of the U.S. actually imposing the threatened 25% tariffs on Mexican imports, set to take effect on February 1. "To be honest, we don’t think this will happen," she stated, adding, "But if it does, we have a plan and will keep you informed." This comment came amid heightened tensions as former U.S. President Donald Trump reiterated his administration's aggressive trade policies relating to Mexico, including the potential for broad tariffs linked to issues such as illegal immigration and drug trafficking.

Sheinbaum noted, “Discussions are progressing, and if such a decision is made, we are ready.” This response indicates Mexico's preparation for economic fallout, which could significantly impact its economy, heavily reliant on trade with its northern neighbor. Reports indicate careful negotiations continue between the two nations, highlighting the importance of maintaining trade relations.

On the same day, Sheinbaum also addressed the Gulf of Mexico naming controversy during her public address. Following Trump’s order, Google announced it would rename the Gulf for its U.S. user base. This decision, according to Sheinbaum, lacks legitimacy. "The United States cannot unilaterally change the name of a shared body of water," she asserted. The Mexican president, with legal backing, presented her argument against such changes, emphasizing international law principles, particularly referencing the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, which governs nomenclature and territorial waters.

Despite Google’s announcement, indicating it would label the Gulf as "Gulf of America" for U.S. users, Sheinbaum reiterated on January 30, 2025, her government’s official stance by sending Google a letter condemning this decision. According to her, the name change could only correspond within the 12 nautical miles from the U.S. coastline, rejecting the notion of the Gulf being renamed based solely on U.S. governmental decisions.

"It is very important... it is an international organization" was among her key points, signifying her belief the naming and claims to international waters cannot fall under unilateral governance. Amid this backdrop, Sheinbaum has urged Google to take Mexico’s historical claims and international norms seriously, even humorously adding, "If countries were renaming regions, North America might as well be called 'Mexican America'," referencing historical maps dating back to 1607.

The diplomatic clash over the Gulf’s name accentuates the mounting tensions between the U.S. and Mexico—particularly poignant as Sheinbaum prepares responses to potential tariffs and seeks to clarify her country’s territorial rights. Her administration has not only prepared for potential economic repercussions stemming from U.S. tariffs but also has initiatives aimed at those affected by the fluctuated political climate.

Reports suggest Mexico's government has mobilized under the initiative called "Mexico Embraces You," aimed at providing support to returning migrants and integrating them back through social welfare programs. This initiative includes plans for establishing reception centers and providing immediate assistance, showcasing Mexico’s strategic response to U.S. immigration policies and threats of mass deportation.

Claudia Sheinbaum’s assertive responses to U.S. tariffs and the Gulf naming reflect her administration's determination to protect Mexican sovereignty and interests. Amid potentially tumultuous negotiations, her remarks and actions highlight the broader narrative of national identity and collaboration—or conflict—between two neighboring countries.

With trade relations under scrutiny and naming rights at stake, the outcome of these challenges remains closely watched not just by the government but by the Mexican populace, deeply invested in the socio-economic ties with the U.S. Sheinbaum’s strategy, characterized by skepticism toward imposed tariffs and strong objections to unilateral renaming initiatives, may shape the future narrative of U.S.-Mexico relations for years to come.