MEXICO CITY, Feb 24 (Reuters) – Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum is thinking about legal action against billionaire Elon Musk. Musk suggested on social media that she has ties to drug cartels. His comment came after the capture of a notorious cartel leader, Nemesio Oseguera, also known as “El Mencho.”
In a post, Musk reacted to an older video of Sheinbaum talking about cartel violence. He claimed she was simply repeating what “her cartel bosses tell her to say,” but he didn’t provide any proof for his accusation.
During her morning press conference, Sheinbaum stated, “We are considering whether to take legal action.” She added that her team is evaluating the situation.
In the 2025 video that sparked Musk’s comment, Sheinbaum argued against a return to the “war on drugs.” She emphasized, “Returning to this path is not an option; it’s outside the framework of the law.”
Historical context shows that the military crackdowns led by former President Felipe Calderon in 2006 escalated violence. Many analysts believe this approach contributed to today’s high homicide rates. The current strategies focus on peace rather than force.
Following Oseguera’s capture, cartel members organized roadblocks and arson attacks. However, Sheinbaum expressed confidence that security in Mexico would improve. “The detention of a suspected criminal can cause disruptions, but we aim for peace, not war,” she said.
Luisa Alcalde, president of the ruling MORENA party, also spoke out on social media. She urged Musk to use his influence to combat drug addiction and disinformation instead of spreading unverified claims. “Wealth does not give moral authority,” she stated, highlighting the grave human cost of drug violence. Mexico currently has over 130,000 missing persons, many linked to drug cartels that source weapons from the U.S.
Understanding the complexities of this issue is important. Efforts to tackle drug violence often draw criticism, and social media plays a significant role in shaping public perceptions. Many see Musk’s remarks not just as a comment on Sheinbaum but as reflecting broader societal issues.
For more in-depth analysis on the impact of drug cartels and strategies for peace in Mexico, you can see reports from the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime or follow ongoing discussions in reliable news sources.
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Claudia Sheinbaum, Elon Musk, Jalisco New Generation Cartel, Nemesio Oseguera, cartel violence, legal action, President Felipe Calderon, drug consumption
