Trump: Mexico ‘should immediately stop’ people, drugs from crossing border

President Trump on Monday reiterated his demand that Mexico halt all illegal immigration and drug smuggling, the latest sign he is refusing to back away from his threat to impose sweeping tariffs on the nation’s largest trading partner.

“As a sign of good faith, Mexico should immediately stop the flow of people and drugs through their country and to our Southern Border. They can do it if they want!” Trump tweeted.

{mosads}The message came on the same day top Mexican officials, including Foreign Secretary Marcelo Ebrard, arrived in Washington for talks with the Trump administration in order to avoid the tariffs.

Trump announced last week he would slap a 5 percent tariff on all imports from Mexico starting June 10 if the country does not stop all illegal migration and the flow of drugs to the U.S., a goal that hasn’t been achieved in modern history. The decision, made by a small group of the president’s advisers, was opposed by many in his administration who fear it could hurt the economy and halt progress toward ratifying a new North American trade deal.

The Mexican officials are set to meet at the White House on Wednesday with administration officials, but the president will not be present.

Trump sent his message from the United Kingdom, where he is on a three-day state visit.