Peruvian former Prime Minister Betssy Chavez arrives for her trial on charges of rebellion and conspiracy against the state at a police base on the outskirts of Lima, Peru, Tuesday, March 18, 2025
Peru has officially cut diplomatic ties with Mexico following Mexico’s decision to grant asylum to former Peruvian Prime Minister Betssy Chávez. Chávez is currently under investigation for alleged involvement in a failed coup attempt led by former President Pedro Castillo in 2022.
Peru Calls Mexico’s Move an “Unfriendly Act”
Peru’s Foreign Minister Hugo de Zela announced the decision on Monday, describing Mexico’s action as an “unfriendly act.” He said that offering asylum to Chávez at the Mexican Embassy in Lima only worsens the already strained relations between the two nations.
De Zela stated, “We learned with surprise and deep regret that former Prime Minister Betssy Chávez, accused of participating in an attempted coup, has been granted asylum by Mexico.”
The office of President José Jerí accused Mexico of “repeated interference” in Peru’s domestic affairs, calling the move a violation of diplomatic norms and national sovereignty.
The Rebellion Case Against Betssy Chávez
Betssy Chávez, who served as prime minister under Pedro Castillo, faces serious charges of rebellion and conspiracy against the Peruvian state. Authorities allege she played a key role in Castillo’s failed attempt to dissolve Parliament and declare a state of emergency in December 2022.
Castillo’s plan fell apart after the military refused to support him. He was arrested shortly after Congress voted to remove him from office, and prosecutors accused him of trying to stage a coup.
According to the Peruvian Attorney General’s Office, Chávez acted as an accomplice in the rebellion. She could face up to 25 years in prison if convicted.
Mexico Defends Its Decision
In response, Mexico’s Foreign Affairs Ministry expressed “regret” over Peru’s decision to break diplomatic relations. The ministry insisted that granting asylum to Chávez was “a legitimate act consistent with international law.”
Mexico dismissed Peru’s accusations, calling the move “excessive and disproportionate.” The ministry stated, “Our decision in no way constitutes intervention in Peru’s internal affairs.”
Mexico maintains that it followed established international asylum protocols and has acted within its legal and humanitarian rights.
A History of Rising Tensions
The diplomatic rift between the two nations has been growing since Pedro Castillo’s removal from office in 2022. Castillo, who came to power on a leftist platform, was ousted after attempting to dissolve Congress amid corruption allegations and impeachment threats.
His wife and children have been living in Mexico since then, where the Mexican government has shown open sympathy toward Castillo. In October, Mexico’s left-leaning President Claudia Sheinbaum reiterated her support for him, labeling his ouster a “coup” and calling for his release and a fair trial.
Peru Accuses Mexico of “Systematic Interference”
In a formal statement, Peru’s Foreign Ministry accused Mexico of “inadmissible and systematic interference” in its internal affairs since the 2022 crisis. The ministry said repeated diplomatic requests for Mexico to respect Peru’s sovereignty were ignored.
“The Mexican government has maintained an unacceptable position, disregarding Peru’s repeated calls for non-interference,” the statement said.
Diplomatic Fallout and Regional Implications
The severing of ties marks a sharp escalation in tensions between two of Latin America’s key nations. Analysts warn the fallout could impact regional cooperation and trade discussions within Latin American alliances.
While Mexico stands firm on its humanitarian stance, Peru insists that granting asylum to Chávez undermines its judicial process and national integrity. The standoff highlights a broader ideological divide between the left-leaning governments in the region and Peru’s current administration.
As of now, Betssy Chávez remains at the Mexican Embassy in Lima under diplomatic protection. Peru’s government has not indicated whether it will take further legal or political action in response to Mexico’s decision.
