In a move that eased mounting diplomatic tensions, Mexico has committed to transfer more water to the United States from shared rivers, temporarily boosting U.S. supplies in Texas’ Rio Grande Valley.
The agreement, announced jointly by officials from both nations, came after President Trump threatened additional tariffs and sanctions against Mexico earlier this month. Trump had accused Mexico of “stealing” water from Texas farmers by failing to meet obligations under the 1944 water-sharing treaty. The dispute centred around a shortfall of approximately 420 billion gallons over recent years.
Under the new agreement, Mexico will immediately release a portion of its water reserves and allow a larger share of Rio Grande water to flow to the U.S. through October, according to a statement from the Mexican foreign ministry. Mexico and the United States have agreed not to pursue a renegotiation of the 1944 treaty. They have also committed to develop a long-term plan to reliably meet treaty requirements while addressing outstanding water debts.
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum, adopting a conciliatory tone, acknowledged Mexico’s treaty shortcomings, citing extreme drought and pledging to comply “to the extent of water availability.” In a statement, the U.S. State Department thanked Sheinbaum for her personal involvement, emphasizing the shared hardships caused by water scarcity along the border.
While the deal averts immediate economic penalties, it presents significant challenges for Mexico. Already grappling with historic drought conditions, Mexican farmers are likely to feel the strain. According to the International Boundary and Water Commission, Mexico has consistently fallen short of its water delivery obligations over the past five years, contributing to heightened tensions. Rising temperatures and persistent droughts have only intensified the competition for vital water resources between the two countries.
As drought conditions worsen, the fragile balance of water sharing between Mexico and the United States remains a critical diplomatic challenge.
