Peru cuts diplomatic relations with Mexico over ex-PM asylum
Peru has announced its severing of diplomatic relations with Mexico after the latter’s government granted asylum to a former Peruvian prime minster. Betssy Chávez is facing charges for a 2022 coup attempt in the South American country, with the Peruvian Foreign Minister Hugo de Zela expressing “surprise and deep regret” after learning that Chávez had been given refuge at Mexico’s embassy in the country.
“Given this unfriendly act… the Peruvian government has decided to sever diplomatic relations with Mexico today,” Zela said. In response, the Mexican foreign affairs ministry “rejected Peru’s unilateral decision as excessive and disproportionate.”
Betssy Chávez was imprisoned in June 2023 over an alleged role in ousted Peruvian president Pedro Castillo’s plan to dissolve congress. A judge released her on bail in September and she denies the charges against her.
Peru has also accused Mexico of “repeated instances in which the current and former presidents of that country have interfered in Peru’s internal affairs.”
“The truth is, they have tried to portray the authors of the coup attempt as victims, when in reality, Peruvians live and want to continue living in democracy, as recognised by all countries in the world, with the sole and lonely exception of Mexico,” Zela added.
Chávez faces a 25-year sentence for her alleged role. Castillo was arrested in December 2022 on charges of rebellion after his attempt to dissolve congress and install an emergency government. He was impeached hours after the attempt and has been in preventative custody since then. He faces a 34-year sentence for his role.
Stay tuned to EyeOnLondon for the latest news and expert opinions.
Follow us on:
Subscribe to our YouTube channel for the latest videos and updates!
We value your thoughts! Share your feedback and help us make EyeOnLondon even better!
