Environmentalists say Mexico lied about origins of Gulf oil spill

Key Points:

• Environmental groups in Mexico accuse the government of concealing the true source of a massive oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico, claiming it originated from a Pemex pipeline in early February, contradicting official reports that blamed natural seeps and a ship since March.
• Satellite images presented by activists show a large oil slick and a pipeline repair boat, Árbol Grande, suggesting prior government knowledge and a delayed public disclosure of the spill.
• Pemex denies the accusations, stating the Árbol Grande conducts routine inspections and spill responses, while President Claudia Sheinbaum maintains no leaks have been reported from state oil infrastructure and suggests natural seeps are the likely cause.
• The spill has spread over 373 miles, affecting seven nature reserves and harming marine life and local fishermen, though officials downplay the environmental damage as not severe.
• The controversy arises amid broader environmental concerns, including recent U.S. policy changes exempting Gulf of Mexico drilling from the Endangered Species Act, which critics warn could further threaten marine ecosystems.