U.S. Concerns Over Putin's Possible Attendance at Sheinbaum's Inauguration
The United States has expressed its disapproval regarding the potential attendance of Russian President Vladimir Putin at the inauguration ceremony of Claudia Sheinbaum, set to take place on October 1. A State Department spokesperson stated that the presence of an 'autocrat' like Putin would overshadow this historic event for Mexico, emphasizing that such a figure is responsible for significant global turmoil and conflict. The spokesperson reiterated the U.S. commitment to supporting Ukraine and urged the Mexican government to advocate for Ukraine's sovereignty during any discussions with Russian officials.
Diplomatic Protocol and Neutral Stance
In response to the U.S. concerns, both Sheinbaum's team and Mexico's Ministry of Foreign Affairs clarified that Russia received a 'diplomatic notice' as part of standard protocol extended to all nations with which Mexico maintains diplomatic relations. Juan Ramón de la Fuente, Sheinbaum's appointed foreign minister, explained that this notice serves as a reminder for nations to save the date for the inauguration. Although Russian media reported Putin's invitation, the Mexican government has yet to issue a formal invitation. The situation is further complicated by Putin's arrest warrant from the International Criminal Court, which may affect his attendance. Despite these tensions, Sheinbaum has expressed hopes for ongoing dialogue and cooperation with Russia, maintaining Mexico's traditionally neutral stance in international conflicts.
- The diplomatic communication from Mexico was described as a standard practice, ensuring that all nations are informed of significant political events. This approach aligns with Mexico's broader foreign policy strategy under the previous administration, which emphasized maintaining relationships with a diverse range of countries, including Russia. Sheinbaum's administration is expected to continue this trend, fostering dialogue while navigating the complexities of international relations in light of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. The situation remains fluid as both the U.S. and Mexican governments monitor developments leading up to the inauguration.
