Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum humorously addressed Donald Trump's suggestion to rename the Gulf of Mexico as the "Gulf of the United States," asserting Mexico's rightful claim over the maritime area. In a press conference, Sheinbaum used a sarcastic tone, unveiling a 17th-century map to emphasize Mexico's historical rights to the region. She playfully suggested that instead of adopting Trump's proposal, the United States could be renamed "Mexican America." "Let's call it Mexican America. It has a nice ring to it, doesn't it?" she quipped, displaying a map from 1607 highlighting the southern U.S. as part of the ancient constitution of Apatzingán.
Sheinbaum underscored that the Gulf of Mexico is recognized by the United Nations and its name is not subject to arbitrary changes. Her irony continued as she pointed out Trump's alleged misinformation regarding Mexico's political situation. "Yesterday, President Trump was misinformed that Felipe Calderón and García Luna still governed in Mexico, but no, it's the people who govern here," she stated, alluding to the current administration and critiquing her predecessors, whom Mexican leftists have often referred to as U.S. puppets.
Trump's proposal, sparking controversy, accompanies his recent statements on redrawing the map of the Western Hemisphere. This isn't the first instance of the former president addressing geopolitical issues with a provocative tone. This week alone, he suggested that Canada should become the "51st state" of the U.S., proposed retaking control of the Panama Canal, and demanded that Denmark cede Greenland.
While the Gulf of Mexico spans several southeastern U.S. states, for Mexicans, its name remains irreplaceable. This latest proposal adds to the longstanding tensions between the two nations, which also involve disputes over border security and trade policies.
Common Concerns about the Gulf of Mexico Controversy
What was Claudia Sheinbaum's response to Trump's suggestion?
Claudia Sheinbaum humorously proposed renaming the United States as "Mexican America" instead, highlighting Mexico's historical claims with a 17th-century map.
How is the Gulf of Mexico officially recognized?
The Gulf of Mexico is officially recognized by the United Nations, and its name is not subject to arbitrary changes.
What other controversial proposals has Trump made recently?
Recently, Trump suggested making Canada the "51st state" of the U.S., retaking control of the Panama Canal, and demanding Greenland's cession by Denmark.