MEXICO CITY — On Monday, officials in Mexico announced they are waiting for a fresh response from Google regarding the company’s handling of the Gulf of Mexico name on its mapping service. President Claudia Sheinbaum revealed details about a letter from Cris Turner, Google’s vice president for government affairs, who stated that the company intends to maintain its naming policy after the U.S. government referred to the body of water as the Gulf of America under former President Donald Trump.
During a morning briefing, Sheinbaum stated, “We will await Google’s response; if it is not favorable, we will pursue legal action.” Currently, Google Maps displays the name Gulf of America within the United States, while in Mexico it is shown as Gulf of Mexico. Other regions see it labeled as Gulf of Mexico (Gulf of America). In Turner’s letter, he emphasized that Google’s usage of the name Gulf of America is based on “longstanding maps policies” that aim to uphold impartiality and consistency around the globe. He also expressed willingness for Google representatives to meet with officials from the Mexican government to discuss the matter further.
The Mexican government contends that Google’s mapping policies infringe upon its sovereignty, emphasizing that only about 46% of the Gulf is under U.S. jurisdiction. In contrast, Mexico asserts control over approximately 49% of the Gulf, while Cuba manages about 5%. The designation Gulf of Mexico has historical roots dating back to 1607 and is recognized by the United Nations as the official name.
In reaction to Google’s positioning, Mexican authorities firmly stated they would take legal measures, asserting, “Under no circumstances will Mexico accept the renaming of a geographic zone within its own territory and under its jurisdiction.” The contentious naming resonates particularly during a sensitive political time, generating friction between the two neighboring countries.
President Sheinbaum is faced with the challenge of navigating U.S. relations, especially amid threats of tariffs and ongoing immigration policy anxieties, as Mexico braces for potential mass deportations, consequences of which have yet to materialize. In conjunction with the legal outreach towards Google, Sheinbaum announced plans for high-level discussions this week between Mexico and the U.S. meant to enhance trade and security cooperation, signaling efforts to sustain a “long-term collaborative plan” between the nations.
This recent adjustment in the naming of the Gulf has also stirred discord within the United States. The White House recently limited access for Associated Press reporters to various events, asserting it was due to the outlet’s adherence to using Gulf of Mexico, which aligns with global standards for geographical names, while also recognizing Trump’s alternative nomenclature. Voicing concerns over press freedoms, other media organizations, including the White House Correspondents’ Association and the New York Times, have supported the AP’s stance, expressing alarm at perceived violations of press rights.
