A caravan consisting of 1,500 migrants has embarked on a journey from Mexico's southern border, challenging recent statements by Donald Trump, the U.S. President-elect, and Claudia Sheinbaum, the President of Mexico. The group set out from Tapachula, traveling 16 miles over a span of 10 hours to reach Huehuetán, where they split into two separate groups. The larger contingent continued towards Huixtla, while the others paused to rest.
According to EFE, this new caravan is composed of individuals from Venezuela, Colombia, Haiti, Cuba, and other Central American nations, alongside people from the Middle East. The pervasive insecurity and prolonged waiting periods in Tapachula have fueled this mass movement.
Fear Grows Amid Stricter Immigration Policies
Among the migrants, there is significant anxiety regarding the harsher immigration policies advocated by Trump. He has criticized the caravan's progression and has threatened to increase tariffs and close borders as a punitive measure against Mexico for failing to manage the regional migration crisis effectively.
Mexican Government's Response
Last week, Claudia Sheinbaum engaged in discussions with Trump, asserting that the Mexican government has a strategy in place to prevent these migrants from reaching the U.S. borders. She also reassured that there would be no tariff war with the United States. However, merely days after her statements, the migrants commenced their northward trek.
The arduous journey, spanning 620 miles, continues with the hope of reaching Mexico's northern border, where they aspire to find better economic opportunities and enhanced safety.
Migrant Caravan Questions and Concerns
What is the primary motivation for the migrants' journey?
The migrants are primarily motivated by the desire for better economic opportunities and increased safety, stemming from the insecurity and long waiting times in Tapachula.
How has Donald Trump responded to the caravan?
Donald Trump has condemned the caravan's advance, threatening to impose higher tariffs and close borders as penalties against Mexico for not controlling the migration crisis.
What stance has Claudia Sheinbaum taken regarding the migrant caravan?
Claudia Sheinbaum has stated that the Mexican government has strategies to prevent the migrants from reaching the borders and has assured there will be no tariff war with the United States.