Mexico Suspends Diplomatic Ties with Ecuador over Embassy Raid

The rupture in relations transpired subsequent to Mexico granting political asylum to former Vice President Jorge David Glas Espinel, convicted twice on corruption charges in his homeland, who sought refuge in the embassy since late last year. Ecuador had sought Mexico’s consent to detain Glas, which Mexico declined. Glas contends he faces political persecution.

While extending asylum to the ex-VP, Mexico’s Foreign Ministry implored Quito to ensure Glas's safe departure. Ecuador rebuffed the plea, asserting it is illegal to grant asylum to individuals convicted or charged with common crimes.

On Friday evening, Ecuadorian law enforcement officers stormed the embassy, footage depicting a substantial police presence. The Ecuadorian government defended the raid as safeguarding national sovereignty.

“Embassies are intended as diplomatic spaces to foster bilateral relations,” Ecuador stated, accusing Mexico of exploiting diplomatic privileges and immunities.

In a statement Saturday, President Lopez Obrador condemned the raid as a breach of international law and Mexico's sovereignty, affirming Glas's status as a refugee facing persecution.

"I have directed our foreign minister to condemn this authoritarian act, pursue legal avenues, and promptly declare the suspension of diplomatic relations with the government of Ecuador," he declared.

Mexican Foreign Minister Alicia Barcena announced the immediate withdrawal of diplomatic personnel from Ecuador, vowing to lodge a complaint with the International Court of Justice against Ecuador's actions. The ministry disclosed injuries among Mexican diplomats during the operation.

Even preceding the embassy incursion, Mexico-Ecuador relations were strained by several controversies. President Lopez Obrador criticized Ecuador's presidential election as "highly dubious," citing electoral influence from violence, including the assassination of Ecuadorian presidential candidate Fernando Villavicencio.

In response, Ecuador expelled Mexican Ambassador Raquel Serur Smeke, asserting sovereignty and highlighting the nation's mourning over Villavicencio's assassination.