Peru Cuts Diplomatic Ties with Mexico Over Asylum for Former Prime Minister
Peru announced today it is severing diplomatic relations with Mexico after the Mexican government granted asylum to Betssy Chávez, a former Peruvian prime minister facing charges related to a 2022 coup attempt.
Peruvian Foreign Minister Hugo de Zela expressed his “surprise and deep regret” upon learning Chávez was given refuge at the Mexican embassy in Peru. “Given this unfriendly act… the Peruvian government has decided to sever diplomatic relations with Mexico today,” Zela said. Chávez was imprisoned in June 2023 for her alleged role in ousted President Pedro Castillo’s attempt to dissolve congress, and was released on bail in September while denying the charges. Prosecutors are seeking a 25-year sentence for her alleged involvement.
Mexico’s foreign affairs ministry responded by “rejecting Peru’s unilateral decision as excessive and disproportionate.” Peru also accused Mexico of repeated interference in its internal affairs, alleging that current and former Mexican presidents have attempted to portray those involved in the coup attempt as victims. This move escalates already strained relations between the two nations, potentially impacting trade and regional cooperation. Further details on the political climate in Peru can be found at the U.S. Department of State website.
The situation stems from the December 2022 arrest of Pedro Castillo on rebellion charges after he attempted to dissolve congress and establish an emergency government, leading to his impeachment. Castillo remains in preventative custody, facing a potential 34-year jail term. Peru previously expelled Mexico’s ambassador in 2022 after asylum was offered to Castillo’s family, and recalled its own ambassador a year later following supportive statements from then-President Andrés Manuel López Obrador. You can read more about the events surrounding Castillo’s removal from office here.
Peruvian officials stated they expect Mexico to respect Peru’s judicial processes and refrain from further interference in its internal affairs.
