Ukraine urges Mexico to arrest Putin if he attends Sheinbaum’s inauguration

Mexico’s President-elect Claudia Sheinbaum’s upcoming inauguration has drawn international attention as the country welcomes its first female president.

Amid this historic event, the Ukrainian embassy in Mexico has called on the government to arrest Russian President Vladimir Putin if he attends the ceremony, citing an international arrest warrant issued by the International Criminal Court (ICC).

We trust that the Mexican government would comply in any case with the international arrest warrant by handing the aforementioned man over to the United Nations judicial body in The Hague

Ukrainian Embassy in Mexico

Mexico’s dilemma between Ukraine and Russia

• ICC warrency: The ICC issued the warrant in March 2023, accusing Putin of war crimes related to the forced deportation of Ukrainian children to Russia following Moscow’s invasion in early 2022.
• Putin and Zelenskyy invited: Juan Ramon de la Fuente, Sheinbaum’s designated foreign minister, explained that it’s standard protocol for Mexico to invite leaders from all countries with which it has diplomatic relations, including Russia and Ukraine. As a result, both President Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy were invited to the ceremony.
• Mexico’s position: Mexico, as an ICC member, is obligated to comply with international arrest warrants. However, the country has also been strengthening ties with Russia. Putin congratulated Sheinbaum on her June victory, referring to Mexico as Russia’s “historically friendly partner” in Latin America.
• Historic inauguration: Sheinbaum secured a historic victory in the general election on June 2. She will begin her six-year term in October. The invitation of Putin and Zelenskyy underscores the complex international dynamics at play during her inauguration.

Can Putin be arrested?

• International law: The call for Putin’s arrest highlights the challenges of international law enforcement when diplomatic relations are involved. While inviting global leaders is part of diplomatic etiquette, the presence of a leader with an ICC arrest warrant complicates proceedings.
• Diplomatic tensions: This situation places Mexico in a difficult position, balancing its diplomatic relations with Russia and its obligations as an ICC member. The international community will closely watch how Mexico navigates this delicate issue.