Mexico Roundup: Cuban oil shipment, Trump security tensions, World Cup terror warning

Mexico sends 85,000 barrels of oil to Cuba amid regional energy shifts

A tanker carrying 85,000 barrels of Mexican crude oil arrived in Havana, continuing ongoing exports to Cuba amid Venezuela’s deepening energy crisis and shifting regional dynamics. The government confirmed the shipments are part of sustained contracts or humanitarian aid, and that Mexico has become a significant supplier to Cuba as Venezuelan output declines. Data shows Mexico exported an average of over 12,000 bpd to Cuba in 2025, surpassing Venezuela’s deliveries, although President Claudia Sheinbaum insists levels remain within historical norms. Critics, including opposition figures, argue the exports lack transparency and represent a financial contribution to Cuba’s government without clear public accounting. The move occurs against rising geopolitical tension with the United States over Cuba and Venezuela policy.

Sheinbaum orders foreign affairs talks after Trump’s cartel claims

President Claudia Sheinbaum instructed Mexico’s Secretary of Foreign Affairs, Juan Ramón de la Fuente, to meet with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio to discuss security cooperation after US President Donald Trump announced plans to “start attacking the cartels on the ground.” Sheinbaum said the talks aim to “strengthen communication” and share information on seized drug laboratories and coordinated efforts. She also spoke to Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva to reaffirm a shared understanding of security issues, describing Trump’s rhetoric as part of his communication style. The diplomatic move reflects efforts to balance cooperation with the US and Mexico’s sovereignty amid heightened cross-border security concerns.

Experts warn of potential terrorism risk ahead of 2026 World Cup

Security specialists have flagged a potential terrorism risk in Mexico during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, noting that the heightened global profile of the event could attract threats. At a security panel, they urged stronger coordination among Mexico, the United States and Canada to improve screening and border security, and highlighted vulnerabilities such as gaps in shared traveller-vetting systems. Former Mexican ambassador Arturo Sarukhán emphasised the need for integrated security strategies to prevent incidents tied to organised crime or extremist actors during the tournament. The warning reflects broader concerns about public safety and international cooperation in the run-up to one of the world’s largest sporting events.

Government ups its bet on voluntary disarmament to curb violence

Mexico’s federal government is increasing cash incentives for the voluntary surrender of firearms under its “Sí al Desarme, Sí a la Paz” programme, part of a broader strategy to reduce violence and illegal gun circulation. The new scale of payments offers higher amounts for surrendering machine guns, military-grade rifles and other weapons compared with last year, alongside protections for participants’ anonymity. The initiative, coordinated by the Secretariat of the Interior and backed by the army for the secure destruction of collected arms, is intended to tackle structural causes of violent crime by removing firearms from circulation. Officials say the programme boosts community safety while encouraging peaceful engagement.

National forest policy updated with new zoning framework

The government published a national forest zoning agreement under the General Law of Sustainable Forest Development, creating a unified, technical framework to manage Mexico’s forests. The zoning categorises forested areas by natural vocation, from conservation and restoration to sustainable production zones, using geospatial data and ecological inventories to guide planning and protect biodiversity. Authorities say the policy aims to improve coordination across government levels, promote conservation and support sustainable resource use while safeguarding soil, water and ecosystem services. The move responds to long-standing calls for more strategic, science-based forest governance and environmental planning.