A transcript of a phone conversation between US President Trump and Mexican President Peña Nieto has been leaked.
In the phone call, which took place January 27, Trump urges Peña Nieto to stop criticizing the infamous wall to be built on the US/Mexico border.
“From an economic issue, it is the least important thing we were talking about, but psychologically, it means something,” said the US President.
The transcript highlighted Trump’s acknowledgement that Mexico would not pay for the wall, with Trump urging Peña Nieto not to tell the press of the news.
“The fact is we are both in a little bit of a political bind because I have to have Mexico pay for the wall – I have to.”
“You cannot say that to the press. The press is going to go with that and I cannot live with that. You cannot say that to the press because I cannot negotiate under those circumstances.”
“Because you and I are both at a point now where we are both saying we are not to pay for the wall,” said Trump. “From a political standpoint, that is what we will say.
“We cannot say that anymore because if you are going to say that Mexico is not going to pay for the wall, then I do not want to meet with you guys anymore because I cannot live with that.”
Trump then went on to offer a deal with the Mexican President regarding Mexican drug cartels and US military help.
“You have some pretty tough hombres in Mexico that you may need help with, and we are willing to help you with that big-league,” said Trump.
“Listen, I know how tough these guys are – our military will knock them out like you never thought of. We will work to help you knock them out because your country does not want that.”
Trump remained insistent, the thought of striking a deal worrying the President.
“This is going to kill me. I am the world’s greatest person that does not want to let people into the country.”
“This deal will make me look terrible.” he said.