Mexican President Sheinbaum Responds to Los Angeles Protests Over ICE Arrests

Following a wave of protests and unrest in Los Angeles linked to recent immigration enforcement actions by U.S. authorities, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo has publicly addressed the situation, urging calm and offering support for Mexican nationals affected by the crackdown.

Over the weekend, large-scale protests broke out in response to stepped-up arrests by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), leading to reports of vandalism, police vehicles being set on fire, and clashes with law enforcement. The unrest followed a renewed focus by the Trump administration on deporting undocumented immigrants, many of whom are long-time residents in cities like Los Angeles.

Speaking during a press conference on Monday, Sheinbaum made it clear that while she supports the right of people to express themselves, she strongly condemns the use of violence.

“We do not agree with violent actions as a form of protest,” she said. “Burning police cars appears to be more an act of provocation than of resistance. We condemn violence, no matter where it comes from.”

Sheinbaum called on Mexican nationals living in the United States to avoid confrontation and participate only in peaceful demonstrations. “We call on the Mexican community to act pacifically and not allow itself to be provoked,” she added.

In response to the recent ICE operations, Sheinbaum confirmed that Mexican consular officials in the U.S. are actively working to provide legal assistance to those detained, including the 35 Mexican nationals reportedly in ICE custody in Los Angeles.

“Our consulates are engaged with those affected to ensure their rights are respected, and that they receive proper legal representation,” she said.

The president also spoke in praise of the Mexican community living in Los Angeles, highlighting their contributions to the city’s economy and culture. “They are good, honest men and women who left to seek a better life for themselves and to support their families. Los Angeles would not be what it is today without its Mexican population,” Sheinbaum noted.

She further emphasized that Mexico remains open to welcoming back any citizens who wish to return. “Migrants are always welcome in their home country. If they choose to return, they will be supported,” she said.

On a diplomatic level, Sheinbaum stated that her government will continue to use all available international channels to express its disapproval of U.S. immigration policies that, in her view, endanger the safety and dignity of migrant communities.

“The Mexican government will continue using diplomatic and legal tools through its consular network to object to practices that criminalize migration and put the lives of our citizens at risk,” she said.

While Sheinbaum did not address Mexico’s own immigration laws—some of which impose strict penalties for illegal entry—she stressed that the focus remains on protecting Mexicans abroad during a time of rising tension.

As protests continue in several U.S. cities, Sheinbaum’s administration has vowed to monitor the situation closely and stand by the Mexican diaspora with both legal aid and diplomatic engagement.