Mexico’s President Claudia Sheinbaum firmly rejected the idea of US strikes on Mexican territory. This came a day after US President Donald Trump said he would do “whatever we have to do to stop drugs” from entering the United States.
Sheinbaum stated clearly, “It’s not going to happen.” She reminded Trump that while intelligence sharing is possible, Mexico would control all operations on its soil. She added that she conveyed the same message to US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who “understood her position.”
Trump’s Comments Spark Tension
On Monday, Trump said, “Would I want strikes in Mexico to stop drugs? OK with me, whatever we have to do to stop drugs,” and added that he was “not happy with Mexico.” However, later that day, the US Embassy posted a video of Rubio saying the US would not act unilaterally in Mexico.
This exchange highlighted differences between public statements and official policy. Meanwhile, officials began addressing a related border incident.
US Signs Placed on Mexican Beach
On Monday, several men arrived by boat at a beach in northeast Mexico. They installed signs marking the area as restricted US Department of Defence land. The Mexican navy quickly removed the signs, which were on Mexican soil.
Sheinbaum said the International Boundary and Water Commission now oversees the situation.
Playa Bagdad Sign Confusion
The signs were placed at Playa Bagdad, near where the Rio Grande meets the Gulf of Mexico. Written in English and Spanish, they declared the land restricted and banned entry, photography, and drawings.
Pentagon Confirms Contractors’ Role
On Tuesday, the US Embassy shared a Pentagon statement. It confirmed that contractors installed the signs to mark “National Defence Area III.”
The Pentagon explained that changes in river depth and terrain caused confusion about the exact border. It also confirmed that Mexican personnel removed six signs. The contractors will now coordinate with agencies to prevent future issues.
Mexico Seeks Clarity
Mexico contacted its consulate in Brownsville, Texas, and then the US Embassy in Mexico City. Sheinbaum confirmed that US contractors had placed the signs. She noted that the Rio Grande often shifts its course and stressed that treaty obligations require a clear border.
Sensitive Area Near SpaceX Site
The beach lies close to SpaceX’s Starbase site in Texas, near Boca Chica Beach. The facility works on NASA and Defence Department projects. In June, debris from a SpaceX rocket test reportedly landed on Mexican soil, raising safety concerns.
Tensions Remain High
The region remains sensitive. Tensions increased after Trump ordered the Gulf of Mexico renamed the “Gulf of America,” which Mexico rejected. Officials continue monitoring border and sovereignty issues closely.