Peru has officially severed diplomatic relations with Mexico after the Mexican government granted asylum to former Peruvian Prime Minister Betssy Chavez, who is facing charges of rebellion and conspiracy against the state. Peruvian Foreign Minister Hugo de Zela called the decision an “unfriendly act,” accusing Mexico of repeated interference in Peru’s internal affairs. Chavez, who served under former President Pedro Castillo, is accused of participating in his failed 2022 attempt to dissolve Parliament and declare a state of emergency. Castillo, arrested after the alleged coup attempt, remains in custody, while his family resides in Mexico under asylum.

The move marks a sharp escalation in tensions between Lima and Mexico City, underscoring growing divisions in Latin America’s political landscape. Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum has publicly expressed support for Castillo, describing his ouster as a “coup” and calling for his release. For observers in Europe, particularly Berlin, the diplomatic rift illustrates the fragility of regional governance and the risks of ideological polarization spilling into international relations—an issue with broader implications for trade, migration, and global diplomatic alignments.

Image: „Juramentación de nuevo Gabinete Ministerial 6-22 screenshot – Betssy Chávez“ by Presidencia de la República del Perú, licensed under CC BY 3.0.