Trump’s Standoff with Mexico: Tariffs and Sanctions Over Water Dispute

Trump threatens tariffs and sanctions on Mexico over water shortages harming Texas farmers, citing violations of the 1944 Water Treaty. He emphasizes the struggles of the agricultural community and supports strict compliance measures. The ongoing drought exacerbates the crisis.

Former President Donald Trump issued a warning to Mexico regarding potential tariffs and sanctions if it continues to withhold water from South Texas farmers as outlined in the 1944 Water Treaty. This treaty mandates that Mexico provides 1.3 million acre-feet of water to Texas, an obligation that Trump claims has not been met, adversely affecting local farmers.

In his recent statements on Truth Social, Trump highlighted the severe impact of water shortages, noting the closure of Texas’s only sugar mill as a direct consequence of Mexico’s actions. He criticized President Joe Biden, asserting that Senator Ted Cruz has been advocating for the farmers’ needs while the current administration has allegedly remained inactive.

Trump vowed to enforce compliance with the treaty, stating, “My Agriculture Secretary, Brooke Rollins, is standing up for Texas Farmers, and we will keep escalating consequences… until Mexico honors the Treaty, and GIVES TEXAS THE WATER THEY ARE OWED!” He previously halted water shipments to Tijuana as leverage.

The ongoing dispute over water allocation between the U.S. and Mexico has been exacerbated by the worst drought seen in nearly three decades, threatening Texas’s $500 million citrus industry. Under the treaty, Mexico must deliver 1.75 million acre-feet of water within a five-year cycle, which is critical for irrigation.

In response to Mexico’s failure to comply, the Bureau of Western Hemisphere Affairs noted that it would deny a non-treaty request for water delivery to Tijuana. Sen. Ted Cruz has voiced concerns regarding the current water crisis in South Texas, labeling it a “man-made crisis” and supporting measures to ensure Mexico fulfills its treaty obligations to farmers.

Trump’s ultimatum to Mexico highlights significant tensions over water rights, crucial for Texas agriculture. He argues for stringent measures to enforce the 1944 Water Treaty, emphasizing the detrimental impacts of water shortages on farmers. With the agricultural crisis deepening, the situation necessitates a swift resolution to safeguard Texas’s vital farming sector.

Original Source: www.foxnews.com