The United States Warns of Putin’s Presence at Mexican Inauguration
The United States has expressed concern over Russian President Vladimir Putin’s potential attendance at the upcoming inauguration of Mexican President-elect Claudia Sheinbaum on October 1st.
According to US officials, the presence of Putin, who faces an arrest warrant from the International Criminal Court for his actions in Ukraine, would detract from the significance of the event. The US government believes Putin is “an autocrat responsible for so much death and destruction” in Ukraine.
The US State Department spokesperson stated, “Investments should be celebrations of democracy and peaceful transitions of power. As a sovereign nation, Mexico is the one who decides who to invite to these events. However, the presence of an autocrat, responsible for so much death and destruction, would detract from what will be a historic moment for Mexico.”
While the US opposes Putin’s attendance, they hope to work closely with Sheinbaum. The spokesperson added, “We look forward to working closely with President-elect Sheinbaum on our shared vision of a prosperous and secure North America, in a spirit of partnership and friendship that can serve as an example for the region and the world.”
Mexico, however, has stated that it will not prevent Putin from attending the inauguration. The country has ratified the Rome Statute, which created the ICC, but has not confirmed whether it will arrest Putin if he visits.
Sheinbaum has defended her decision to invite Putin, explaining that Mexico has a tradition of inviting leaders of all countries with which it maintains diplomatic relations.