Peru Announces Diplomatic Break with Mexico Over Ex-Premier’s Asylum
In a surprising diplomatic move, the government of Peru declared the severance of diplomatic relations with Mexico, citing the asylum granted to former Peruvian Prime Minister Betsy Chavez at the Mexican embassy in Lima.
According to Reuters, this decision came after officials in Lima learned on November 3rd that Chavez, who served under current President Pedro Castillo, had sought refuge in the Mexican embassy’s residence.
Foreign Minister Hugo de Selá stated that this action was a response to an unfriendly act and interference in Peru’s internal affairs by Mexico, which, in his words, had repeatedly breached diplomatic protocols over recent months.
The Mexican Ministry of Foreign Affairs has yet to comment on the matter.
Chavez, who was detained in June this year, had been held in custody but was released by courts multiple times.
She is viewed as a political figure targeted for her alleged involvement in former President Castillo’s attempt to dissolve Congress in late 2022.
Castillo himself is under investigation and remains in detention.
Despite her arrest in June, a judge ordered her release in September.
Chavez’s lawyer reported limited communication with her in recent days and expressed uncertainty whether she sought political asylum, leaving her future fate uncertain and raising questions about her current status amid ongoing diplomatic tensions.