United Nations Condemns Ecuador’s Attack on Mexican Embassy
The United Nations expressed dismay over Ecuador’s security forces attacking the Mexican Embassy in Quito to seize former vice president Jorge Glas, who had been granted political asylum there. The raid prompted Mexico to cut diplomatic ties with Ecuador, receiving support from other Latin American countries.
International Outcry
- UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres alarmed by the raid
- Mexico cuts diplomatic ties with Ecuador
- Regional governments condemn Ecuador’s actions
Violation of International Law
President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador of Mexico called the raid a “flagrant violation of international law and the sovereignty of Mexico.” Nicaragua and other Latin American countries also criticized Ecuador’s actions, with Lopez Obrador planning to file a complaint at the International Court of Justice.
Diplomatic Fallout
The Vienna Convention prohibits intruding upon an embassy on its territory, with the United States condemning any violation of this convention. The incident strained relations between Mexico and Ecuador, leading to the expulsion of the Mexican ambassador and the granting of political asylum to Glas.
Embassy Standoff
Following the raid, the embassy remained surrounded by police, and diplomatic personnel from Mexico and allied countries prepared to leave Ecuador. The diplomatic spat between Mexico and Ecuador escalated due to comments made by President Lopez Obrador regarding crime and election violence in both countries.
Background on Jorge Glas
Jorge Glas, 54, served as vice president under leftist president Rafael Correa and faced corruption charges. His asylum at the Mexican Embassy sparked a diplomatic crisis between Mexico and Ecuador, highlighting tensions in the region.
