US President-elect Donald Trump plans to issue an executive order renaming the Gulf of Mexico to the “Gulf of America” on his first day in office. The move has sparked international controversy, with the United States, Mexico, and Cuba sharing control over the economic center.
The gulf’s name is tied to a Native American city bearing the same moniker, and it has been used for over 400 years. Trump argues that the US should claim ownership of the gulf due to its significant contributions to economic activity, including fishing, electricity generation, and shipping.
However, experts note that international law and agreements govern the use of oceanic territories, and the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea determines the boundaries of US territorial waters. Trump’s plan would require cooperation from other nations, but it remains unclear whether such cooperation is forthcoming.
The gulf’s renaming has been linked to a broader diplomatic push by Trump against Mexico, which he calls “very dangerous” and “in trouble.” He has proposed tariffs on Mexico and Canada if they do not meet his demands for stopping illegal immigration and curbing drug trafficking. Critics argue that American demand drives much of the illicit trade.
The move is seen as part of a larger strategy to assert US dominance and rebrand its international relationships. Trump’s plans have sparked concern among international leaders, who question the legality and practicality of such a change.
Source: https://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/americas/us-politics/gulf-of-mexico-rename-trump-b2692987.html