MEXICO CITY February 24, 2026 – Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum announced Tuesday that her government is reviewing legal options against Elon Musk after the Tesla and SpaceX CEO publicly accused her of acting as a “puppet” controlled by drug cartels.
The row erupted after Musk replied to a video clip of Sheinbaum addressing Mexico’s strategy against organized crime. In the clip, the president argued against reverting to a full-scale militarized “war on drugs,” saying it falls outside the legal framework and risks escalating violence.
Musk responded sharply: “She’s just saying what her cartel bosses tell her to say. Let’s just say that their punishment for disobedience is a little worse than a ‘performance improvement plan.’”
During her regular morning press conference on February 24, Sheinbaum dismissed the claim as “absurd” and lacking any evidence. “We are considering whether to take legal action,” she told reporters, confirming that legal experts are examining possible avenues.
The comments come shortly after Mexican security forces achieved a major blow against the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG) by neutralizing one of its top leaders, Nemesio “El Mencho” Oseguera. Sheinbaum has repeatedly emphasized a balanced approach focused on intelligence, coordination with the United States, and respect for sovereignty rather than unilateral military intervention.
Musk, a vocal advocate for stronger measures against cross-border drug trafficking and a close ally of the U.S. administration, has frequently criticized what he sees as insufficient action by Mexican authorities.
This is not the first time Mexico has threatened legal action involving Musk; in 2025, Sheinbaum’s government weighed lawsuits over alleged environmental damage from SpaceX rocket debris landing in Mexican territory.
No immediate response from Musk has been reported. The Mexican government has not yet detailed the legal basis for any potential suit, which could involve defamation or related claims.
The incident underscores persistent frictions between Mexico and the U.S. over border security, cartel violence, and national sovereignty. Further developments are expected in the coming days.
Life News Agency will continue to monitor this story.
About The Author
