French President stresses sovereignty, calls for cooperative efforts in combating drug trafficking
Mexico City, November 2025: French President Emmanuel Macron has criticized the United States’ controversial anti-drug operations in the Caribbean and Pacific regions, emphasizing that respect for national sovereignty is essential in the fight against drug trafficking.
Speaking at a joint press conference with Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum following a brief Latin America tour, Macron said, “The fight against drug traffickers is an issue that unites all of us.” He highlighted the need for operations to be conducted through international cooperation while respecting each country’s sovereignty.
Under the Trump administration, the U.S. deployed extensive forces in Latin America targeting ships in the Caribbean and Eastern Pacific earlier this year. While Washington claims the operations focus on drug traffickers, at least 18 vessels have been destroyed, with critics warning of extrajudicial consequences. No conclusive evidence has been presented that these targets posed direct threats to the U.S.
During the visit, Macron also reiterated his intent to strengthen bilateral relations with Mexico, Latin America’s second-largest economy, following his engagements with Brazil.
Source: AFP.