Mexico Invites Putin to President Sheinbaum's Inauguration Amid ICC Warrant Controversy

Mexico has invited Russian President Vladimir Putin to the inauguration of President-elect Claudia Sheinbaum on Oct. 1st. An ICC arrest warrant for Putin complicates the invitation. Russia and Mexico have strengthened ties, but Mexico's ICC membership raises questions about Putin's potential attendance.

Mexico has extended an invitation to Russian President Vladimir Putin for the upcoming Oct. 1 inauguration of President-elect Claudia Sheinbaum, as reported by Russia's Izvestia newspaper on Wednesday, citing the Mexican embassy in Russia.

According to the embassy representative, the invitation was formally sent to Putin, who will either attend the ceremony himself or delegate a high-ranking official. Mexico's foreign ministry told Reuters that diplomatic invitations were also extended to all nations and international organizations that Mexico has relations with.

Despite an ICC arrest warrant issued against Putin in 2023 for alleged war crimes, Russia and Mexico have been strengthening diplomatic ties. Putin congratulated Sheinbaum on her election victory, describing Mexico as a "historically friendly partner." However, Mexico's membership in the ICC suggests potential complications should Putin decide to attend.

(With inputs from agencies.)