Peru declares Mexican President Sheinbaum persona non grata
The legislature of Peru has formally declared Claudia Sheinbaum, President of Mexico, a persona non grata, heightening diplomatic tensions between the two countries.
The decision came in response to Mexico’s decision to grant asylum to Betssy Chávez, a former prime minister of Peru who faces prosecution over the 2022 attempt by Pedro Castillo to dissolve the Peruvian Congress. Mexico defended its action as compliant with international law, while Peru viewed it as an unfriendly interference in domestic affairs.
In a vote of 63 to 34, the Peruvian Congress approved the declaration, citing concerns that President Sheinbaum has taken positions supportive of Castillo and undermined Peru’s constitutional succession.
Mexico’s Foreign Affairs Ministry rejected the move as “excessive and disproportionate,” insisting that the asylum decision followed international obligations and did not interfere in Peru’s internal matters.
The declaration adds to a chain of diplomatic measures, including Peru’s earlier break in formal diplomatic relations with Mexico. Analysts say this reflects deeper friction between the countries over issues of sovereignty, asylum and regional politics.
