President Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo announced on June 18, 2026, that over half of Mexico’s cellular lines are now registered as part of a government initiative to combat extortion. During her morning press conference, the president addressed international criticism from U.S. President Donald Trump regarding drug cartels, clarified the funding behind a recent event at Chapultepec Castle, and confirmed a diplomatic meeting with King Felipe VI of Spain scheduled for June 25.
Status of Cellular Registration
More than 50% of cellular lines in Mexico have been registered under a new government mandate, according to President Sheinbaum. The administration plans to present a detailed report on the progress of this registry on Thursday, June 20. Sheinbaum stated that the initiative is designed specifically to curb extortion and emphasized that the measure is not intended to negatively impact the general population.
International Relations and Security Policy
President Sheinbaum responded to remarks made by Donald Trump at the G7 summit in France, where the U.S. president claimed that Mexican drug cartels govern the country and characterized Sheinbaum as being “very afraid.” Sheinbaum dismissed the comments as rhetoric the U.S. leader has used previously. She defended the current Mexican security strategy and noted that her administration is focusing on results rather than reacting to individual statements.
Clarifications on Domestic Controversies
During the briefing, the president addressed several domestic issues, including the use of Chapultepec Castle for a pre-World Cup 2026 event. Sheinbaum clarified that the event was organized and funded by FIFA, noting that her own attendance was brief. Regarding reports of forced labor in the Sierra Tarahumara, the president stated she has personally visited the region, specifically Guadalupe y Calvo, and consulted with the local municipal president. She added that the area currently has an increased presence of the National Guard and receives support through federal welfare programs.
When questioned by the press about alleged “acarreo” (the organized transport of supporters to political events) during her recent report at the Monumento a la Revolución, Sheinbaum expressed frustration. She clarified that the methodology for internal security data remains private, though she directed the public to the Secretariado Ejecutivo del Sistema Nacional de Seguridad Pública for official crime statistics.
What Happens Next
The government is expected to release further data on the national cellular registry this Thursday, which may clarify how the administration plans to address remaining unregistered lines. Additionally, the diplomatic meeting between President Sheinbaum and King Felipe VI on June 25 at the Palacio Nacional could lead to new bilateral agreements, particularly regarding the rights of indigenous peoples. Observers suggest these events may serve as a test for the administration’s ability to balance domestic political pressure with international diplomatic demands.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who funded the event at Chapultepec Castle?
According to President Sheinbaum, the event was organized and paid for by FIFA.
What is the status of the cellular line registration?
The president reported that more than half of the cellular lines in Mexico have been registered, with a formal update on the process scheduled for Thursday.
When will the president meet with the King of Spain?
The meeting is confirmed for Thursday, June 25, at 17:00 hours in the Palacio Nacional.
How might the upcoming release of cellular registration data influence public perception of the government’s security initiatives?
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