Mexico Assures No US Military Flights Over Its Territory

Mexico’s President Claudia Sheinbaum on Monday addressed public concerns over two recent U.S. military activities near Mexican territory. These movements raised tensions after the recent attack on Venezuela.

Last Friday, the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) advised aircraft operators to “exercise caution” over the eastern Pacific near Mexico, Central America, and parts of South America due to “military activities.”

Sheinbaum said her administration waited for written assurances from the U.S. confirming that no military flights would occur over Mexico. The U.S. provided exact coordinates of their operations, and Mexican authorities clarified that the FAA advisory had no implications for Mexico.

Concerns grew after images of a U.S. military transport plane at Toluca Airport, about 63 km west of Mexico City, circulated on social media. Opposition Senator Clemente Castañeda questioned the government, highlighting that the Mexican Senate must approve foreign troops’ presence.

Sheinbaum explained the plane’s visit was a “logistical” operation for training purposes and did not require Senate approval. She added that the Secretary of Defense authorized it, and the operation follows bilateral collaboration agreements between Mexico and the U.S.

These events underscore tensions following the Trump administration’s recent actions in Venezuela and renewed threats of U.S. military involvement against Mexican drug cartels.

Both governments maintain that they will continue cooperating on security while respecting Mexico’s sovereignty. Officials from both countries are scheduled to meet again this Friday to strengthen security collaboration, counter cartels, and stop the illicit flow of fentanyl and weapons across the shared border.