Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum condemned the violence during mass protests in Los Angeles over U.S. immigration raids, urging peaceful action and respect for the rule of law. Speaking at her morning press conference, Sheinbaum emphasized, “We condemn violence wherever it comes from,” while calling on U.S. authorities to conduct immigration enforcement with legality and human rights in mind.
The protests erupted across Los Angeles over the weekend, sparked by President Donald Trump’s aggressive immigration policies. Demonstrators, many waving Mexican flags, rallied against immigration raids and detentions, with some events turning violent. Police reported incidents involving burning cars and projectiles hurled at officers. In response, California Governor Gavin Newsom criticized Trump for escalating tensions by deploying the National Guard. Trump labeled the demonstrators as “insurrectionists,” further fueling the controversy.
President Sheinbaum urged Mexican nationals in the U.S. to remain calm and avoid provocation, but stopped short of calling for an end to the protests. In Mexico City, a small group gathered outside the U.S. embassy to show solidarity with their compatriots. “Seeing the images from LA makes you feel impotent, but also proud to be Mexican,” said historian Argelia Gonzalez.
Mexican Foreign Minister Juan Ramon de la Fuente reported that 42 Mexicans were detained in four ICE detention centers following the raids, with four already deported. He noted most were arrested while working. “We will continue our visits to monitor the condition of detained Mexicans,” he stated.
Trump has intensified immigration enforcement ahead of the election, pledging to deport record numbers and enforce a strict border crackdown, setting a goal of 3,000 daily arrests by ICE. The situation in Los Angeles has become a focal point in the growing debate over immigration policy and civil unrest.