Sheinbaum rejects the death penalty: "The crime doesn't matter."

A short but powerful statement: "We are against the death penalty. No matter the crime."

This is how Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo responded to questions about the legal future of some of the most notorious drug traffickers extradited to the United States.

In her morning press conference from the National Palace, Sheinbaum addressed the issue following the U.S. Attorney's Office's announcement that it would not seek the death penalty for Ismael El Mayo Zambada, Rafael Caro Quintero, and Vicente Carrillo Fuentes, El Viceroy . Although all three face serious drug trafficking-related charges, the president was emphatic:

“All extradition treaties establish that there can be no death penalty; it's part of Mexican policy.”

Sheinbaum's response is neither casual nor improvised. Mexico has historically been a country that defends human rights even in the most complex contexts, such as that of organized crime. The president made it clear that the Mexican government will not intervene in agreements between the United States Department of Justice and the accused, but emphasized that Mexico's ethical line remains firm: no extradition will be valid if it includes the possibility of execution.

Not so long ago, cooperation between Mexico and the U.S. was marked by silence and complicity. Quick extraditions, accusations without solid evidence, and deals that seemed to go against the national interest were common. Today, the narrative changes. Sheinbaum proposes a model where sovereignty is exercised even in the most sensitive judicial matters.

She also made this clear when questioned about the United States' alleged interest in intervening in Mexican political campaigns, specifically regarding its support for figures like Eduardo Verástegui. "The ambassador has been very respectful toward us," she said, reaffirming that power in Mexico lies with the people , not foreign governments.

Claudia Sheinbaum asserted that any extradition will be subject to compliance with national legislation and signed international treaties. Mexico will comply, but will not cede its sovereignty. Current foreign policy, in her words, is focused on "benefitting the people of Mexico."

The position is clear: it's not about defending criminals, but about defending principles.