Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum has emerged as the toughest negotiator Donald Trump has ever faced. She has developed a strategy that allows her to defend her country’s interests without backing down or provoking direct confrontation. Calm, strategic, and firm, she has so far managed to secure a truce on U.S. tariffs while maintaining record-high popularity in Mexico, exceeding 80%.
“She removed testosterone from the equation”: Claudia Sheinbaum’s Strategy
A scientist by training, Claudia Sheinbaum applies a method based on rationality and emotional control. She avoids escalating rhetoric in response to Trump’s aggressive statements and instead takes a composed, pragmatic stance. Sheinbaum responded by saying that it was “important to always keep a cool head.” She instructed her government when Trump declared an “emergency” at the U.S.-Mexico border in January.
Unlike other leaders who opted for direct confrontation, Sheinbaum has taken a measured approach. “She removed testosterone from the equation,” says journalist Pedro Miguel, who is close to the ruling party. This strategy helps her avoid pointless disputes and focus on practical solutions.
Sheinbaum doesn’t react impulsively—she anticipates. Even before Trump’s inauguration, she took steps to prevent tensions. Her government announced fentanyl seizures, addressing Trump’s accusations that Mexico wasn’t doing enough to combat drug trafficking.
When Trump decided to impose 25% tariffs on Mexican imports in March, she responded by announcing “tariff and non-tariff countermeasures.” However, rather than rushing into a confrontation, she allowed time for dialogue. In the meantime, she negotiated an agreement with Trump over the phone, securing a suspension of the tariffs until April 2. This move earned her widespread public support and recognition for her diplomatic skills.
“You’re Tough”: Trump Acknowledges the Mexican President’s Firmness
Despite her diplomatic approach, Sheinbaum knows when to be firm. She strongly rejected accusations of collusion with drug cartels, reminding the U.S. of its own responsibility in arms trafficking that fuels violence in Mexico.
Even Trump has acknowledged her toughness. “You’re tough,” he reportedly told her during a phone call, according to The New York Times—a rare compliment coming from him. Former Mexican diplomat Roberta Lajous praised her strategy: “She has been firm and strong… so far, she has been successful.”
An Effective Crisis Strategy… But for How Long?
Sheinbaum’s approach has so far prevented a major crisis with Washington while strengthening her leadership at home. With an approval rating above 80%, she has convinced the Mexican public that she can handle the complex U.S.-Mexico relationship.
However, this truce may not last. The deal with Trump expires on April 2, and trade or migration tensions could resurface. “Mexico dodged a bullet, but Trump still has a loaded gun in his hand pointed at Mexico,” warns expert Pamela Starr.
Claudia Sheinbaum has proven that a strategy based on diplomacy and firmness can contain Trump’s attacks—for now. The question is whether it will hold up against future challenges.