Day 688 — Interior Secretary Presses US Ambassador Over Mexicans Deported to Third Countries

On August 20, 2026 (Day 688), Interior Secretary Rosa Icela Rodríguez met with U.S. Ambassador Ronald Johnson and formally objected to the practice of deporting Mexican nationals to third countries — including Guatemala, Honduras, and Costa Rica — before they reach Mexico. Rodríguez said Mexico's position was "firm" and "respectful," noting several repatriated Mexicans had instead been routed through Central America; Guatemalan President Bernardo Arévalo said his country had received 2,284 Mexican deportees from the U.S. so far in 2026, transiting to Mexico within 24 hours. Rodríguez also noted irregular migration at Mexico's northern border had fallen 96%. She disclosed the meeting and Mexico's objection publicly the following morning while standing in for an ill President Sheinbaum at the August 21 press conference.