Mexico Rejects DEA’s Claims of Drug Cartel Collaboration

Mexico’s President Claudia Sheinbaum firmly denied claims made by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) regarding a collaborative agreement to combat drug cartels. This denial came just hours after the DEA announced a new initiative, dubbed Project Portero, which aims to enhance cooperation in addressing cross-border drug trafficking and related crimes.

During a news briefing on October 3, 2023, Sheinbaum stated, “The DEA put out a statement yesterday saying that there is an agreement with the Mexican government for an operation called Portero. There is no agreement with the DEA.” She emphasized that the Mexican government had not authorized any collaboration with the DEA, clarifying that actions taken were the result of a workshop in Texas attended by four members of Mexico’s police force.

The DEA’s announcement highlighted a workshop designed to train Mexican investigators alongside U.S. prosecutors and law enforcement officials. Sheinbaum expressed her frustration with the DEA’s lack of coordination in making the statement, urging the agency to adhere to established protocols when issuing public announcements. She stressed that Mexico signs agreements only with the U.S. government as a whole, not with individual agencies.

Strained Relations and Past Tensions

The relationship between Mexico and the United States regarding drug enforcement has been historically fraught. Under Sheinbaum’s predecessor, André Manuel López Obrador, tensions escalated, particularly when the DEA was accused of overstepping its boundaries and fabricating charges against Mexican officials, including the former defense secretary. However, recent exchanges suggested a thawing of relations, with both nations working collaboratively to mitigate threats posed by drug cartels.

Despite the denial of the specific agreement, Sheinbaum indicated that her administration had been in discussions with U.S. counterparts over a broader security agreement that is nearing completion. This agreement is based on principles of sovereignty, mutual trust, territorial respect, and coordination without subordination.

The DEA’s statement included comments from agency administrator Terry Cole, who asserted that Project Portero and the training initiatives reflect a unified approach. Cole remarked, “Project Portero and this new training program show how we will fight — by planning and operating side by side with our Mexican partners.”

Future Cooperation and Ongoing Efforts

As the situation unfolds, both governments are likely to continue addressing the complex issues surrounding drug trafficking and organized crime. Sheinbaum’s administration has taken a more assertive stance on combating drug cartels, evidenced by the recent extradition of 26 cartel figures to the United States.

While the immediate collaboration remains unclear, the groundwork for future cooperation is being laid through ongoing discussions between Mexican and U.S. officials. As Mexico navigates its security challenges, the emphasis on mutual respect and cooperation remains central to its diplomatic efforts with the United States.

The developments surrounding Project Portero and the ongoing dialogue reflect the complexities of international law enforcement collaboration, highlighting the need for clear communication and formal agreements in combating transnational crime.