Venezuela has withdrawn its ambassador from Brazil following a dispute over Caracas’s unsuccessful attempt to join the BRICS alliance of major developing nations. The Foreign Ministry of Venezuela accused Brazilian officials of blocking its membership and making rude and interventionist statements. The tensions between the two neighboring South American countries have escalated since Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro declared himself re-elected in July amid allegations of irregularities in the voting process.
Brazil’s President Lula da Silva has not recognized Maduro’s victory, calling for official tally results to be published. Brazil’s decision to prevent Venezuela from joining BRICS at a recent summit in Kazan, Russia further exacerbated the situation. Venezuela expressed indignation and shame at the perceived aggression. BRICS currently includes Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, along with newcomers Iran, Egypt, Ethiopia, and the UAE.
Venezuela’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs criticized Brazil’s foreign policy adviser Celso Amorim, accusing him of serving as a messenger for North American imperialism. The ongoing dispute stems from differing election results, with Maduro’s electoral officials declaring him the winner without releasing detailed data, while the opposition claims victory based on detailed polling station results. The situation has led to political unrest and violence, with at least 23 people killed in protests following the election.
As tension continues to rise between the two countries, the diplomatic relations remain strained. Venezuela’s decision to withdraw its ambassador is a clear sign of the escalating conflict over the BRICS membership issue and the disputed election results.
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