The Trump administration has initiated a review of all 53 Mexican consulates operating within the United States, a move that could result in the closure of some diplomatic outposts, according to a State Department official who spoke on condition of anonymity on Thursday.
The official did not provide a specific reason for the review, which was first reported by CBS News, nor details on what it would entail. However, the action is likely to further exacerbate already strained relations between the two neighboring nations. The official was not authorized to discuss the matter publicly.
President Donald Trump has pursued a more aggressive posture toward Latin America than any recent U.S. president. His administration has captured Venezuela's leader in a military raid, pushed sweeping reforms in Venezuela, imposed an oil blockade on Cuba, interfered in elections in Argentina and Honduras, and threatened military action against Mexican cartels.
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum has sought to maintain a cooperative relationship with Trump, offsetting U.S. threats by intensifying crackdowns on Mexican cartels, which has led to a reduction in homicides. However, a series of recent scandals have ignited a political firestorm in Mexico.
First, two CIA agents died during an anti-narcotics operation with local authorities in northern Chihuahua state, leading to days of contradictory statements by Mexican officials. Then, last week, the U.S. indicted several officials from Sheinbaum's party—including a top ally—on drug trafficking charges.
Earlier this week, Trump reiterated, "If Mexico doesn't act, we will." This has intensified pressure on Sheinbaum and fueled speculation about her insistence on preserving Mexican sovereignty.
Mexico maintains the most extensive network of diplomatic outposts in the United States. Its consulates assist Mexican citizens living in the U.S. by providing identification documents, legal assistance, and other essential services.
"The Department of State is constantly reviewing all aspects of American foreign relations to ensure they are in line with the President's America First foreign policy agenda and advance American interests," said Dylan Johnson, U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for Public Affairs.
The U.S. has previously closed a Chinese consulate in Houston and three Russian facilities, including a consulate in San Francisco and outposts near Washington and New York.
