Extradition of 37 Cartel Leaders to US Was Mexico’s Sovereign Choice — Sheinbaum

Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum has defended the extradition of 37 high-profile cartel operatives to the United States, describing the move as a sovereign decision taken in the interest of Mexico’s national and public security.

Speaking at a press conference in Mexico City on Wednesday, Sheinbaum said the decision was not made to satisfy US demands, but was based on security assessments by Mexican authorities.

“Mexico comes first, above everything else. It is a sovereign decision, analysed on the basis of security policy, national security and the protection of our sovereignty,” she said, stressing that the extraditions were carried out for the benefit of Mexico.

The latest handover brings to 92 the number of high-impact criminal suspects extradited to the US under bilateral cooperation, amid continued pressure from US President Donald Trump on Mexico to intensify efforts against drug trafficking.

Sheinbaum acknowledged that while there was a request from the US Department of Justice, the decision was ultimately taken by Mexico’s National Security Council after evaluating its potential impact on domestic security.

Despite tensions in bilateral relations, including threats and coercive rhetoric from Washington, the president said extraditions are conducted independently of US political pressure.

Following the transfer, the US Department of Justice praised the move, with Attorney General Pam Bondi describing it as a significant step in the Trump administration’s campaign against drug cartels.

“These 37 cartel members, including figures linked to the Sinaloa Cartel and the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), will now face justice for their crimes on American soil,” Bondi said.

Sheinbaum reiterated that cooperation with the United States would continue, but only on terms that respect Mexico’s sovereignty and national interests.