Trump requested an investigation into possible Chinese financing for the Mayan Train.

A group of 35 Republican congressmen has urged the President of the United States, Donald Trump, to conduct an investigation regarding the Maya Train. According to the legislators, there is a possibility that such a project has been financed by the Chinese Communist Party (CCP).

In a letter sent on March 7, they expressed their concern about the Chinese influence in the Yucatán Peninsula. The legislators highlighted the importance of clarifying who the true developers  of the project are. As well as ensuring that China's Belt and Road Initiative doesn't establish a presence in this strategic location.

Response from Claudia Sheinbaum

The President of Mexico, Claudia Sheinbaum, replied to the accusations during her morning conference on March 10, clarifying that the Maya Train was financed exclusively with Mexican public resources.

Sheinbaum emphasized that all the financial information of the project is documented in the public account reports. Additionally, the president announced that she will send a letter to the congressmen and the White House, whose purpose will be: to clarify the situation and reaffirm the transparency of the project.

National security concerns in the United States

The U.S. congressmen stressed that the Yucatán Peninsula is less than 400 miles from Florida. Which they consider a potential threat to U.S. national security if Chinese involvement in the Maya Train is confirmed.

They also requested the Trump administration to take measures to protect U.S. interests in the region.

Controversy over the expropriation of Vulcan Materials

Another point of tension is the 2022 expropriation of the limestone quarry and the deep-water port of the U.S. company Vulcan Materials in Quintana Roo.

The congressmen asked Trump to address this issue in trade negotiations with Mexico to remedy actions they consider illegal.

Sheinbaum justified herself  arguing that it was not an expropriation, as the land remains the property of the company. The president stated that they will not allow the resumption of soil exploitation in Quintana Roo due to the severe environmental impact.

Geopolitical tensions: United States, China, and Latin America

The request for an investigation into the Maya Train is framed in a context of growing tensions between the United States and China in Latin America. During his second presidency, Trump has expressed concern about Chinese influence in the region.

Including the comment of taking measures regarding the control of the Panama Canal.  These actions reflect the United States' strategy to counter China's expansion in areas considered of strategic interest.

A project under international scrutiny

The Maya Train, one of the flagship projects of the Mexican government, now faces international scrutiny due to accusations of possible Chinese financing.

While Sheinbaum's administration defends the transparency and national financing of the project. The pressure from U.S. congressmen adds a geopolitical dimension that could influence bilateral relations and the global perception of the project.