On December 18, 2025, U.S. Congresswoman Maria Elvira Salazar delivered a sharp critique of Mexico’s regional role in a speech in Washington, DC, directly addressing President Claudia Sheinbaum and raising concerns about Mexico’s foreign policy decisions.
Speaking on the floor of the House of Representatives, Salazar accused Mexico of contradicting its long-standing principle of non-intervention by providing material support to authoritarian regimes in Latin America. She alleged that Mexico has donated US$3 billion worth of fuel to Cuba, which she described as aiding “the Cuban tyranny to continue subjugating the Cuban people,” and argued that such actions violate the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA).
Salazar also criticized Sheinbaum’s recent agreement to pay US$100 million to 300 Cuban doctors, claiming that the doctors receive only 5% of their salaries while the Cuban government retains the rest. She characterized this arrangement as perpetuating “modern-day slavery” under the guise of international cooperation.
In her remarks, the Florida congresswoman further condemned Mexico’s refusal to recognize Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado, interpreting it as tacit support for Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, whom she labeled a dictator. Salazar argued that these positions undermine democratic movements in the region and weaken collective efforts to promote freedom and human rights.
The speech reflects growing tensions between Washington and Mexico City over regional alliances and trade commitments. While Mexico has historically defended its policy of non-intervention, Salazar’s comments highlight U.S. concerns that Mexico’s actions may tilt toward supporting authoritarian governments in Cuba and Venezuela.
Her message to Sheinbaum underscores the delicate balance Mexico faces: maintaining sovereignty in foreign policy while navigating its obligations under trade agreements and its relationship with the United States. As debates over democracy and human rights intensify in Latin America, Salazar’s remarks signal that Mexico’s choices will remain under close scrutiny in Washington.
🚨 #ULTIMAHORA 👏👏👏👏👏
— Helen VL (@HelenVL6) December 17, 2025
Extraordinaria la ponencia de la congresista Maria Elvira Salazar sobre el papel de México en la región.
Mensaje a Claudia Sheinbaum
"La linea política mexicana es la no intervención, sin embargo, México ha donado a la tiranía cubana 3 mil millones de… pic.twitter.com/xTdH0v5Twe
Source: Milenio
