Sheinbaum Threatens Google Over Gulf Name

Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum has reportedly issued a threat of legal action against Google for changing the name of the Gulf of Mexico to Gulf of America on maps for US users following an executive order by President Donald Trump.

The controversy began when Google complied with an executive order from President Trump to rename the Gulf of Mexico to Gulf of America for its American users. This decision has stirred a diplomatic row between Mexico and the United States.

Sheinbaum argued that the name change only applies within the territorial waters of the US and does not extend internationally. She emphasized that the Gulf of Mexico has been recognized by its current name since 1607 and should remain so.

Google’s decision to implement the name change has been met with criticism in Mexico where many see it as an overreach by the US government. Sheinbaum’s response indicates a readiness to defend Mexico’s geographic identity on the global stage.

The Mexican government has reportedly sent a letter to Google requesting the map name be reverted and has warned of civil lawsuits if their demands are not met. This action signifies a potential escalation in US-Mexico relations.

The name change on Google Maps is limited to users within the US with Mexican users still seeing the traditional name. This dual naming system has sparked discussions on sovereignty national identity and international law.

Diplomatic tensions between Mexico and the US have increased under the Trump administration particularly over issues like trade migration and now geographic naming. This incident could further strain bilateral relations.

The international community watches closely as this dispute might influence how countries assert their territorial and cultural identities in an increasingly digital and interconnected world.