Diplomatic tensions rise: Mexico suspends relations with U.S. embassy

President Andrés Manuel López Obrador of Mexico has declared a “pause” in diplomatic ties with the United States after U.S. Ambassador Ken Salazar criticized Mexico for its proposed judicial reform.The controversy centers on López Obrador’s push to amend the Mexican constitution to allow for the direct election of judges, a move Salazar has publicly condemned as a significant threat to democratic principles.

In a press conference on Tuesday, López Obrador expressed his displeasure with Salazar’s remarks. “How are we going to let the ambassador, with all due respect, because this isn’t a argument between enemies, but how are we going to permit that he opines that what we’re doing is bad?” López Obrador asked, questioning the appropriateness of the U.S. intervention in Mexico’s internal affairs.

The planned judicial reform was earlier referred to by Salazar as “a major risk” to Mexican democracy.In a statement posted to the social media platform X on August 22, Salazar argued that the direct election of judges could undermine democratic institutions and pose a threat to the rule of law. He also warned that the debate over this reform might jeopardize the longstanding trade relationship between the U.S. and Mexico.

The U.S.-Mexico relationship, which has historically been strong, now faces tension as a result of this diplomatic disagreement. López Obrador’s response highlights the sensitive nature of international criticism and its impact on diplomatic relations, especially when it involves internal governance reforms.