Peru Breaks Ties With Mexico Over Asylum For Ex-PM Linked To Castillo Coup Plot

Peru has officially severed diplomatic relations with Mexico after the Mexican government granted asylum to former Prime Minister Betssy Chavez, who is under investigation for her alleged role in the 2022 coup attempt led by ex-president Pedro Castillo.

Foreign Minister Hugo de Zela announced the decision on Monday, describing Mexico’s move as an “unfriendly act.” He said the Peruvian government was “deeply regretful and surprised” to learn that Chavez, accused of co-authoring the coup, had taken refuge in Mexico’s embassy residence in Lima.

“Given this repeated interference by both current and former Mexican presidents in Peru’s internal affairs, our government has decided to cut diplomatic ties with Mexico,” De Zela stated.

Mexico condemned the decision as “excessive and disproportionate,” defending its asylum offer as a legitimate act consistent with international law.

Relations between Lima and Mexico have been strained since Castillo’s dramatic downfall in December 2022. The former rural teacher and trade unionist—once celebrated as Peru’s “first poor president”—was impeached after he attempted to dissolve Congress amid political gridlock.

Following Castillo’s removal, Mexico granted asylum to his wife and children, prompting Peru to expel the Mexican ambassador. Then-President Dina Boluarte later recalled Peru’s envoy to Mexico, accusing Mexican leader Andrés Manuel López Obrador of meddling in Peru’s internal affairs.

Castillo was arrested on his way to seek refuge at Mexico’s embassy in Lima and has since faced charges of rebellion and abuse of authority. Chavez, who was also charged, was released on bail but remains on trial, with prosecutors seeking a 25-year prison sentence. Castillo, who denies the accusations, could face up to 34 years behind bars.