Mexico Demands Google Restore Gulf of Mexico or Face Lawsuit
Mexico announced on Monday that it is awaiting a new response from Google regarding the country’s request to fully restore the name “Gulf of Mexico” on its Google Maps service before pursuing legal action.
President Claudia Sheinbaum revealed a letter from Cris Turner, Google’s vice president of government affairs and public policy, stating that Google would not change its policy following former U.S. President Donald Trump’s declaration of the body of water as the “Gulf of America.”
— Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo (@Claudiashein) February 18, 2025
“We will wait for Google’s response, and if not, we will proceed to court,” Sheinbaum said during a morning press briefing.
Currently, the gulf is listed on Google Maps as “Gulf of America” within the United States, “Gulf of Mexico” within Mexico, and “Gulf of Mexico (Gulf of America)” elsewhere.
Turner stated that the company follows “longstanding maps policies impartially and consistently across all regions” and expressed willingness to meet with the Mexican government.
Mexico argues that the mapping policy infringes on its sovereignty, noting that the U.S. only has jurisdiction over approximately 46% of the Gulf, with Mexico controlling 49% and Cuba controlling around 5%.
The name “Gulf of Mexico,” dating back to 1607, is recognised by the United Nations.
Read Also: Apple Map Renames Gulf of Mexico to Gulf of America
Mexican authorities stated they would take legal action, asserting that “under no circumstance will Mexico accept the renaming of a geographic zone within its own territory and under its jurisdiction.”
The renaming has escalated tensions between Mexico and the U.S. Sheinbaum must navigate these tensions amid tariff threats and promised mass deportations that have yet to materialise.
In addition to the legal threat against Google, Sheinbaum announced high-level meetings between Mexico and the U.S. on trade and security, aiming to maintain a long-term collaboration plan.
The issue has also caused discord within the U.S. Last week, the White House barred Associated Press reporters from several events, citing the news agency’s use of “Gulf of Mexico” in adherence to global geographical naming conventions while also acknowledging Trump’s renaming.
Other journalistic organisations, including the White House Correspondents’ Organisation and the New York Times, have raised concerns about press freedom violations.
U.S News
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