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During a congressional hearing, FBI Director Christopher Wray said the Mexican government’s assistance with US efforts to combat fentanyl trafficking has been inconsistent.

Speaking at a House Appropriations subcommittee on Thursday, Wray expressed the need for greater cooperation, stating, “We need much more from Mexico.” Wray described the collaboration from Mexico as a “mixed bag,” noting varying levels of engagement from different Mexican law enforcement agencies and in actions against various cartels. He acknowledged some positive outcomes, referring to them as “individual instances that are bright spots.” However, he emphasized the overarching challenge: “This is such a big problem. We need consistent, sustained, scalable assistance from them.”

Adding to his earlier comments, Wray reiterated his appreciation for the support received but stressed the importance of a more robust partnership. “I’m pleased with what we have gotten, but we need a lot more,” he added.

This statement comes amidst ongoing pressure from President Biden on the Mexican government and President Andrés Manuel López Obrador to enhance their role in curbing fentanyl trafficking and improving border security.

The relationship between Biden and López Obrador has been notably tense, with recent discussions potentially leading to executive action by the US President on border security. In tandem, US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen visited Mexico last December to announce sanctions against Mexican and Chinese firms involved in supplying fentanyl precursors and to foster new partnerships in combating trafficking.