Sheinbaum Responds to U.S. Over Governor's Case, Says Lack of Evidence Points to Political Motives
· Telemundo McAllen (KTLM)
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum firmly responded Thursday to U.S. drug trafficking accusations against Rubén Rocha Moya, the governor of Sinaloa, stating that the decision on how to proceed would rest with Mexico's Attorney General's Office. She emphasized that if no clear evidence is presented, the case appears to be politically motivated. Speaking during her morning press conference, Sheinbaum asserted that any legal action, including extradition, would require 'irrefutable evidence' and must comply with Mexican jurisdiction. She warned against foreign interference in Mexico's internal affairs. The accusations, announced in New York, implicate Rocha Moya and nine other Mexican officials in alleged drug trafficking and illegal arms possession linked to the Sinaloa Cartel. Rocha Moya, a key ally of former President Andrés Manuel López Obrador, categorically denied the allegations, calling them baseless and politically driven. The case has heightened tensions between Mexico and the U.S., with Sheinbaum drawing parallels to previous incidents, such as the 2020 detention and subsequent release of former Defense Secretary Salvador Cienfuegos. Mexico's Foreign Ministry confirmed receiving extradition requests but noted insufficient evidence provided by U.S. authorities. The Attorney General's Office stated it would review the case thoroughly, emphasizing that extradition requires substantial proof under Mexican law.