A surge of approximately 10,000 migrants daily is making its way to the U.S. border, with economic sanctions by the U.S. on nations like Venezuela and Cuba identified as a contributing factor by Mexico’s President, Andrés Manuel López Obrador.
In recent days, Mexico has seen an influx of about 6,000 migrants entering from Guatemala. Many of these individuals are going through Central America, notably navigating the treacherous Darien Gap region that bridges Panama and Colombia. López Obrador, aligning with Colombian President Gustavo Petro, sees the U.S. sanctions on countries such as Venezuela and Cuba as a significant cause for this wave of migration. However, experts point to these countries’ economic mismanagement and political repression as the primary drivers behind the exodus.
The United States’ decision to impose sanctions on these nations is rooted in concerns over the suppression of democracy. Yet, the Mexican president believes the sanctions have more to do with ideological differences than human rights.
Colombia is under the spotlight, with the Petro administration facing criticism for its perceived inaction against the vast smuggling of migrants through the country. Similarly, Mexico’s approach to the migrant issue came into question when concerns arose over migrants using freight trains as a means of transportation northwards. It wasn’t until significant safety concerns emerged that there was a shift in policy.
In a twist highlighting geopolitical intricacies, López Obrador drew attention to the disparity in U.S. foreign aid. He emphasized the significant sums directed to Ukraine, suggesting that a more balanced approach would involve crucial economic development assistance to Latin America.
The backdrop to these developments is underscored by a significant surge of Venezuelan migrants in Mexico. Many have expressed that Venezuela’s deteriorating economic and political landscape spurred their decision to embark on this arduous journey.
While Mexico has been vocal in condemning Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, it has chosen a path of neutrality, refraining from participating in sanctions. This balanced approach extends to its health policy, with Mexico continuing to source COVID-19 vaccines from Russia and Cuba.
