What Does Trump Want With Mexico? Another Conflict Brewing
2026-01-06
US President Donald Trump has escalated his rhetoric toward multiple countries following the US operation that captured Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro over the weekend.
Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One, Trump issued threats and warnings aimed at Colombia, Mexico, Cuba, Greenland, and Iran. His comments have raised concerns about a widening US posture of coercion and intervention, particularly in Latin America.
The remarks come amid growing international backlash to the Venezuela operation, with several governments warning that Washington is setting a dangerous precedent.
Key Takeaways
- Trump threatened possible military action against Colombia
- He warned Mexico to intensify efforts against drug cartels
- Cuba was described as economically weak and close to collapse
- Trump renewed calls to annex Greenland
- International leaders pushed back against US interventionism
Trump’s Threats After the Venezuela Strike
Donald Trump was asked what the US operation in Venezuela signaled for other countries in the region.
His response suggested that Washington’s actions may not be limited to Venezuela.
Trump described Colombia as “very sick” and accused its leadership of facilitating drug trafficking into the United States.
When asked whether the US could carry out a military operation against Colombia, Trump replied that it “sounds good” to him.
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Colombia Pushes Back
Colombian President Gustavo Petro rejected Trump’s remarks and warned against foreign interference.
Petro reaffirmed that he is the constitutional commander of Colombia’s military and police forces and criticized US threats as an attack on national sovereignty.
Colombia has joined other countries in condemning the US operation in Venezuela, calling it destabilizing for regional security.
What Does Trump Want From Mexico

Trump also turned his attention to Mexico, urging the country to “get their act together” regarding drug cartels.
He argued that while Mexico’s government is capable of addressing the problem, criminal organizations remain too powerful.
Trump said he has repeatedly offered US assistance, including military support, to combat the cartels.
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum responded by emphasizing Mexico’s sovereignty, stating that intervention has never brought democracy to Latin America.
Cuba “Ready to Fall,” Trump Says
Trump claimed that Cuba’s economy is on the verge of collapse due to the loss of Venezuelan oil support.
Cuba, which has relied on energy shipments from Venezuela for decades, was described by Trump as having “no income” and being unable to hold out much longer.
Senator Lindsey Graham echoed the sentiment, saying Cuba’s days are “numbered.”
Analysts note that Cuba has long been a focal point of US hostility due to its socialist system and historical tensions dating back to the Cold War.
Greenland and Iran Also in Trump’s Crosshairs
Trump’s remarks extended beyond Latin America.
He renewed calls for the US to annex Greenland, citing national security concerns.
Greenland’s Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen dismissed the idea as unrealistic and urged respect for international law.
Trump also warned Iran that violent crackdowns on protests could trigger US retaliation, adding another flashpoint to an already tense geopolitical landscape.
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International Reaction and Growing Concern
The Venezuela operation and Trump’s subsequent threats have drawn criticism from multiple governments.
Mexico, Colombia, and others argue that unilateral intervention undermines international law and regional stability.
European leaders and Latin American governments alike have expressed concern that Washington is normalizing the use of force as a political tool.
Is Another Conflict Brewing
Analysts remain divided on Trump’s intentions.
Some believe the threats are designed to pressure governments into cooperation without direct military action.
Others warn that repeated threats and public escalation increase the risk of miscalculation, particularly in regions already facing political and economic strain.
Why This Matters
Latin America plays a critical role in global energy markets, migration flows, and regional security.
Rising tensions could impact:
- Diplomatic relations across the Americas
- Energy and commodity markets
- Global perceptions of US foreign policy
For Mexico specifically, Trump’s rhetoric raises questions about how far Washington is willing to go in addressing cartel violence and border security.
Final Thoughts
Trump’s post Venezuela threats suggest a broader and more aggressive US posture toward multiple regions.
Whether these remarks translate into concrete action or remain a form of political pressure remains unclear.
What is certain is that tensions are rising, and the coming months will test the balance between diplomacy, sovereignty, and coercion in US foreign policy.
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FAQs
Why is Trump threatening Mexico
Trump argues that drug cartels are overwhelming Mexico’s ability to control trafficking and has suggested US intervention or assistance.
Did Trump threaten Colombia with military action
Yes. When asked about a potential operation against Colombia, Trump said it “sounds good” to him.
What did Trump say about Cuba
He claimed Cuba is economically weak and close to collapse after losing Venezuelan oil support.
Is the US planning to annex Greenland
Trump has renewed calls to annex Greenland, but Denmark and Greenland’s leadership have rejected the idea.
Is this rhetoric likely to lead to war
It is unclear. Analysts say the threats may be coercive, but repeated escalation increases geopolitical risk.
Disclaimer: The content of this article does not constitute financial or investment advice.





