Sheinbaum Confronts U.S. Over Operation in Mexico Involving American Agents

Tensions Between Mexico and the US After Operation

Operation Without Federal Authorization

Debate Over National Sovereignty

The deaths of two American agents and two Mexican nationals following an anti-drug operation in Chihuahua have reignited tensions between Mexico and United States.

The incident once again places the role of foreign agencies operating on national soil at the center of debate, according to Telemundo.

Why it matters: The US agents involved in the Chihuahua operation highlight friction over sovereignty, security cooperation, and the role of US agencies conducting operations inside Mexico.

In recent days, President Claudia Sheinbaum has demanded explanations from Washington.

US Agents in Chihuahua Operation Spark Tension

The deaths of U.S. agents in an anti-drug operation have reignited debate over foreign intervention in Mexico.
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— Telemundo San Diego (@Telemundo20) April 25, 2026

The demand focuses on the participation of U.S. agents in an operation in Chihuahua.

The president questioned that the intervention occurred without notifying the federal government.

Sheinbaum reiterated that international cooperation is necessary, but must follow clear rules.

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“The central issue is the presence of foreign agents without established permissions,” she stated.
She also insisted that any collaboration must adhere to the Constitution.

“Sovereignty is not negotiable,” she declared.

The president emphasized that local authorities must request authorization from the Foreign Ministry.

They must also inform the federal Security Cabinet to comply with the law.

Operations Without Prior Notice

For security analyst David Saucedo, the US-Chihuahua operation case reflects a growing practice.

It involves unilateral actions by US agencies without prior notice to Mexico.

The specialist explained that this stems from distrust over possible information leaks.

According to Saucedo, sharing intelligence with Mexican authorities carries risks.

These include sensitive data potentially reaching criminal organizations.

He noted that agencies such as the Central Intelligence Agency, Federal Bureau of Investigation, and Drug Enforcement Administration have long operated in intelligence and tactical support roles.

Typically, this has occurred under coordinated but discreet arrangements with national authorities.

However, in recent years, prior intelligence sharing has decreased.

Especially at the federal level, where communication was previously more fluid.

Saucedo added that information from extradited drug lords has been key.

This has helped identify labs, routes, and networks without sharing all intelligence.

He also pointed to Washington’s political interest in claiming operational results.

Additionally, there is an effort to protect the identity of agents in sensitive missions.

Mexican Sovereignty and Bilateral Pragmatism

According to Saucedo, Sheinbaum’s stance carries a clear political dimension.

It reinforces a nationalist narrative that resonates with public opinion.

“The president wraps herself in the flag,” the analyst said.

Despite the criticism, he believes cooperation will not fundamentally change.

The bilateral security relationship is based more on pragmatic criteria.

Rather than strict adherence to formal legal frameworks.

“The legal framework is a dead letter,” Saucedo stated.

In practice, both governments make decisions on a case-by-case basis.

The analyst ruled out a major diplomatic crisis over this episode.

However, he warned that it adds to existing tensions.

These include migration, security, and trade between both countries.

In his view, covert cooperation will continue.

Regardless of the public debate over sovereignty and legality surrounding the US agents Chihuahua operation.