MEXICO CITY – U.S. Ambassador to Mexico Ken Salazar has openly criticized Mexico’s security situation, stating on Nov 13 that the country is currently “not safe” and attributing this to the policies of former President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador, who resisted American assistance in fighting crime.
During a press conference at his residence in Mexico City, Salazar highlighted how cooperation between the two nations deteriorated under Lopez Obrador, citing the ex-president’s “hugs not bullets” policy aimed at addressing root causes of violence as ineffective. “The reality is that at the moment Mexico is not safe,” Salazar stated. He added that the former president’s reluctance to accept U.S. help in combating crime compromised the security coordination efforts between the two countries.
Ambassador Salazar expressed hope that President Claudia Sheinbaum, who assumed office in October, would adopt a more robust security approach, although she has indicated plans to follow closely in her predecessor’s footsteps.
The comments come amid strained diplomatic relations, with Salazar and Lopez Obrador’s administration clashing over several policy issues, including Lopez Obrador’s recent judicial reforms. Once known for their close working relationship, Salazar and Lopez Obrador’s partnership has faced increasing tensions.
Mexico is currently grappling with a surge in violence, as cartel conflicts have led to hundreds of deaths across states like Sinaloa, and other states such as Queretaro have witnessed violent incidents, including a bar shooting that left 10 dead over the weekend.