Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum strongly rebuked U.S. sanctions targeting three Mexican financial institutions, stating that the U.S. has not presented any concrete proof of money laundering.
On Wednesday, the U.S. Treasury Department moved to block transfers from CIBanco, Intercam Banco, and the brokerage Vector Casa de Bolsa, claiming they handled millions of dollars in illicit transfers linked to Mexican drug cartels.
In response, Sheinbaum asserted in her Thursday briefing that U.S. authorities have “not provided a single piece of evidence” supporting those claims. “We aren’t covering for anyone—there’s no impunity. But assertions must be backed by strong evidence, not just words,” she emphasized.
All three financial firms denied the accusations. Vector stated it “categorically rejects any allegation” impugning its integrity, while Intercam denied involvement in any illicit activity. CIBanco’s Manuel Somoza noted that the firm only learned of the sanctions when they were made public, emphasizing that “our books are open” and welcoming an actual investigation.
Sheinbaum also confirmed that Mexico’s financial regulators have conducted their own reviews, finding only minor administrative infractions—far from the serious allegations made by U.S. officials.
The sanctions claim that the banks facilitated U.S.-based money transfers tied to Chinese companies that allegedly helped buy chemicals used for synthesizing fentanyl—substances primarily sourced from China. However, U.S. authorities declined to name the American banks implicated.
Mexican officials argued that strong ties with Chinese clients reflect legitimate trade relations, not illicit activity. Sheinbaum highlighted Mexico’s growing economic partnership with China and criticized the sanctions as political. “We’re no one’s piñata,” she declared, demanding equal treatment and respect for Mexico’s sovereignty.
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