The president of the United States, Donald Trump, emphasized on Thursday that he still intends to impose tariffs on Mexico and Canada starting March 4, as he views the drug levels entering from these neighboring countries as “unacceptable.” Trump has been particularly vocal about the influx of Fentanyl, a type of drug he also blames China for, which faces a separate tariff threat of an additional 10% set to take effect on the same day.
According to Trump, over 100,000 people died in the United States last year due to the distribution of these “dangerous and highly addictive poisons.” In a message on Truth Social, he referenced “millions” of victims over two decades, asserting that the U.S. cannot allow this situation to continue. Therefore, he stated that unless the drug influx stops or is significantly limited, the proposed tariffs will go into effect as planned on March 4.
This stance contrasts with comments made by U.S. Secretary of Commerce, Howard Lutnick, who on Wednesday suggested that a new postponement of the tariffs might be possible if Canada and Mexico can demonstrate progress in combating fentanyl trafficking and enhancing border security.
Sheinbaum Expresses Optimism About Reaching an Agreement
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum expressed optimism on Thursday about the possibility of reaching an agreement with the United States regarding the tariffs. She acknowledged Trump’s distinctive communication style but emphasized the need for “calm and optimism” in believing that an agreement can be reached. Sheinbaum hopes to discuss the matter further with Trump following the planned meetings between high-ranking officials from both administrations, including a meeting on Thursday in Washington between Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Mexico’s top security officials. She expressed her hope that an agreement could be announced by March 4, pending the outcomes of these discussions.