Mexico has extended an invitation to Vladimir Putin for the inauguration of President-elect Claudia Sheinbaum, scheduled for October 1, 2024. This information was conveyed by Mexico's embassy in Russia to the Izvestia newspaper, highlighting the evolving diplomatic landscape between the two nations.
The embassy representative stated, "An invitation for President Putin to attend President Sheinbaum's inauguration has been sent." They added that the Russian leader could choose to attend personally or delegate a high-ranking official to represent him at the ceremony.
This invitation comes amidst complex international circumstances. In 2023, the International Criminal Court (ICC) issued an arrest warrant for Putin, alleging war crimes related to the deportation of Ukrainian children following Russia's military actions in Ukraine, which began in February 2022. Mexico, having been an ICC member since 2006, finds itself in a delicate position, as it is obligated to cooperate with the court's decisions.
Despite these challenges, Russia and Mexico have been fostering closer ties. Putin congratulated Sheinbaum on her electoral victory in June 2024, referring to Mexico as Russia's "historically friendly partner in Latin America." This relationship has roots dating back to 1890 when diplomatic relations were first established between the two countries.
The growing rapport between Moscow and Mexico City has not been without controversy. In September 2023, a Russian military unit participated in Mexico's independence day parade, sparking criticism of then-President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador for providing a platform to forces involved in the Ukraine conflict.
"Russia's invitation to take part in the inauguration of President Sheinbaum was sent to President Putin. The Russian President will decide whether he will participate in the ceremony himself or appoint another high-ranking official to do so on his behalf."
This invitation underscores Mexico's complex position in international affairs. As the second-largest economy in Latin America, Mexico traditionally adheres to a policy of non-intervention and has maintained neutrality in the Russia-Ukraine conflict. However, the country's growing economic ties with Russia, the world's largest country by land area, present both opportunities and challenges.
Sheinbaum's inauguration as Mexico's first female president marks a historic moment for the federal presidential constitutional republic. As Mexico navigates its diplomatic relationships, the international community will be watching closely to see how the country balances its ICC obligations with its developing ties to Russia.