The invitation extended to Russian President Vladimir Putin to attend the inauguration of Claudia Sheinbaum, Mexico's newly elected president, has sparked significant diplomatic reactions from both Ukraine and the United States. The Ukrainian embassy in Mexico has publicly urged the Mexican government to respect an existing international arrest warrant against Putin, issued by the International Criminal Court (ICC) for war crimes, including the forced deportation of Ukrainian children. They emphasized the need for justice concerning Putin's actions during the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, asserting that should Putin attend the ceremony on October 1, he must be arrested and handed over to the ICC in The Hague.
The U.S. State Department also weighed in, suggesting that the presence of an 'autocrat' like Putin would undermine the significance of Sheinbaum's inauguration, which is seen as a pivotal moment in Mexican democracy. They acknowledged Mexico's sovereignty in deciding its guest list but cautioned that inviting a figure responsible for widespread destruction and death could overshadow the celebration of a peaceful power transition. Meanwhile, Sheinbaum has confirmed that invitations were sent broadly, with notable exceptions for leaders from Ecuador and Peru, reflecting a political stance shared by her administration.
Historically, Mexico and Russia have maintained diplomatic relations since 1980, with several high-profile meetings between leaders over the years. Notably, former President Vicente Fox welcomed Putin during a state visit in 2004, marking a significant moment in post-Soviet Latin American relations. The current administration of Andrés Manuel López Obrador has seen more limited contact, primarily through phone calls addressing economic and health issues amid the COVID-19 pandemic. As Sheinbaum prepares to take office, the implications of her guest list and the potential attendance of controversial figures like Putin remain a focal point of international scrutiny.
- The International Criminal Court's arrest warrant against Vladimir Putin was issued in March 2023, highlighting the gravity of the accusations against him. As a signatory to the Rome Statute, Mexico is obligated to adhere to international law regarding war crimes, which adds another layer of complexity to the situation surrounding Sheinbaum's inauguration. The Ukrainian embassy's call for action reflects a broader concern about accountability for war crimes and the international community's role in addressing such violations.
- Claudia Sheinbaum's election as the first woman president of Mexico marks a historic moment in the country's political landscape. Her administration's foreign policy decisions, particularly regarding relations with Russia, will likely be closely monitored by both allies and adversaries. The diplomatic tensions surrounding the invitation to Putin could set the tone for Mexico's international relations under her leadership.
