Mexico demands an apology

last updated 8 January 2015

Mexico City

Mexico recalled its ambassador from Venezuela this week after Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez called Mexico the “puppy dog” of the United States. The Mexican government said the smear strikes “at the dignity of the Mexican people.” Mexican President Vicente Fox said he didn’t want the quarrel to get personal, but said “we can’t allow people to offend our country.” Chavez was angry with Fox for supporting President Bush’s call for a regional free-trade agreement during a recent summit in Argentina. Venezuela responded by recalling its ambassador to Mexico. On his weekly radio show, Chavez issued a warning to Fox. “Don’t mess with me, sir,” he said, “because you’ll get stung.”