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MEXICO

The former military officer and ex-CIA agent, Ron Johnson, will be the US ambassador to Mexico.

The former military officer and ex-CIA agent is known for his closeness to Bukele and his extensive knowledge in gathering information

The United States Senate ratified Ronald Johnson as the new ambassador to Mexico this Wednesday. With a vote of 49 in favor, the former military officer and former CIA agent received approval to be the U.S. representation in Mexico.

His appointment comes during a moment of tensions in security and migration matters between both countries.

A man speaking at a podium with the flags of El Salvador and the United States in the background.
Ronald Johnson, United States Ambassador to Mexico | La Derecha Diario

Who is Ronald Johnson?

Johnson, originally from Alabama, had already held the U.S. embassy in El Salvador during Donald Trump's administration. There, he earned the trust of President Nayib Bukele, with whom he maintained a close relationship.

His closeness with Bukele raised questions about his impartiality and his diplomatic role in complex situations.

This new ambassador is considered a strategic profile due to his military experience, as he has over 30 years in the U.S. Army. In addition to his time at the CIA, where he was a technology liaison with the Special Operations Command.

Two people sitting in a restaurant wearing bibs while enjoying a meal.
Johnson with President Bukele of El Salvador | La Derecha Diario

His history suggests a tough stance against organized crime, which raises concerns about the direction bilateral cooperation with Mexico will take in security matters.

During his confirmation hearing in March, Johnson was evasive when asked directly about a possible U.S. military intervention in Mexican territory.

"Our first desire would be to act in collaboration with our Mexican partners," he said, without ruling out other alternatives.

This is the reason for Johnson's arrival in Mexico.

Johnson's arrival in Mexico coincides with a complex scenario in the country. The uncontrolled violence, the territorial control of cartels, and a national security strategy that, under the Morena government, has shown limited results.

The appointment of the new ambassador could mark a shift in international pressure on Mexico. Particularly if Claudia Sheinbaum's administration fails to contain the drug trafficking crisis it inherited and that has worsened in recent years.

A person speaking at an event with a microphone and a flag in the background.
President Claudia Sheinbaum | La Derecha Diario

Senator Jim Risch, Chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, celebrated Johnson's confirmation as "great news," considering that it will promote a stronger relationship with Mexico.

In a context of diplomatic decisions that respond to geopolitical urgencies and not to ideological coincidences, his presence could be seen as a clear message. The United States is willing to harden its stance if Mexico doesn't act decisively.

A group of soldiers in camouflage uniforms stands next to a border patrol vehicle while two of them shake hands in front of a tall fence.
U.S. troops at the border with Mexico | La Derecha Diario
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