Fri Apr 11 15:11:43 UTC 2025: ## Trump Threatens Mexico with Trade Sanctions Over Water Dispute
**Washington, D.C. – April 11, 2025** – Former U.S. President Donald Trump escalated tensions with Mexico on Thursday, threatening trade sanctions unless the country increases its water deliveries to Texas under a 1944 treaty. Trump, posting on his Truth Social platform, accused Mexico of violating the agreement, claiming they owe over 1.55 billion cubic meters of water and that this water theft led to the closure of Texas’ only sugar mill last year.
The treaty, which governs water sharing between the Colorado and Rio Grande rivers, is set to expire in October. While Mexico argues that drought conditions have hampered its ability to meet its obligations and has submitted a proposal to the U.S. State Department, Trump insists on immediate action. He stated that the U.S. will utilize escalating consequences, including tariffs and potentially sanctions, to ensure Mexico fulfills its treaty commitments.
The U.S. rejected a Mexican request for special water delivery in March. American farmers and lawmakers criticize Mexico for consistently falling short of its obligations, particularly at the end of each five-year delivery cycle. A November agreement aimed at improving water delivery reliability has yet to yield significant results.
Mexico’s past attempts to comply with the treaty have sparked civil unrest. In 2020, violent clashes erupted when farmers seized a dam to prevent water diversion to the U.S., resulting in one fatality. Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum maintains that her government is complying with the treaty to the best of its ability given the ongoing drought. She expressed confidence that a resolution will be reached. The situation highlights the ongoing tensions and complex water management issues between the two nations.
First Piper 