Venezuela Condemns Brazil’s Veto of BRICS Entry as a Hostile Gesture
On October 24, 2023, Venezuela criticized Brazil’s veto of its BRICS entry, labeling the decision as “hostile” and part of a broader pattern of sanctions. Brazil’s Foreign Minister confirmed a consensus on membership criteria for BRICS, which excluded Venezuela, amid significant political disputes over electoral legitimacy within the country. Despite these challenges, Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro awaits further developments following his request to join the bloc in May 2024.
On October 24, the Venezuelan government publicly condemned Brazil’s decision to veto its entry into the BRICS group, labeling it a “hostile” act that aligns with the ongoing imposition of sanctions against Venezuela. The statement was issued by the Venezuelan Foreign Ministry following the conclusion of the BRICS summit in Kazan, Russia, which took place from October 22 to 24. The Venezuelan officials expressed their discontent, stating that Brazil’s stance, represented by Eduardo Paes Saboia at the summit, mirrored the vetoes enacted by former President Jair Bolsonaro, perpetuating “hatred, exclusion, and intolerance” towards Venezuelans. The Foreign Ministry described this move as an “inexplicable and immoral aggression” towards the Bolivarian Revolution initiated by the late Commander Hugo Chávez. Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro had submitted a request to join BRICS in May 2024, but diplomatic sources indicated that Brazil was resistant to this inclusion during pre-summit negotiations. Ultimately, 13 nations were invited to join BRICS as partner states, while Venezuela was notably excluded. Brazil’s Foreign Minister Mauro Vieira revealed that the leading BRICS countries had reached a consensus on the “criteria and principles” guiding future expansions of the bloc. However, differences had emerged between Brazil and Russia regarding Venezuela’s potential membership, with Russia acknowledging the legitimacy of Nicolás Maduro’s government in light of the disputed presidential elections held on July 28, which declared Maduro the victor according to the National Electoral Council (CNE). Brazil’s objection stems from its refusal to recognize these election results, amidst claims by the far-right opposition that they secured over 80% of the electoral documents, notwithstanding their failure to present these claims before Venezuelan judicial authorities. In light of this controversy, Brazilian President Luis Inacio Lula da Silva has commented on the electoral situation in Venezuela, stating that neither side has provided credible results and calling for the CNE to publish detailed results, as well as suggesting the possibility of new elections.
The relationship between Venezuela and its South American neighbors, particularly Brazil, has been marked by significant tensions, largely stemming from political disagreements and differing perceptions of governance legitimacy. This dynamic has been exacerbated by the imposition of international sanctions on Venezuela, which many consider to be a product of the country’s political climate under the Maduro administration. Brazil’s diplomatic stances have consistently vacillated, particularly following the tenure of Jair Bolsonaro, whose policies were characterized by a firm opposition to the Maduro regime. The recent BRICS summit further illuminated these issues, as Venezuela sought to gain inclusion into the bloc, countered by Brazil’s veto rooted in concerns over electoral integrity.
In summary, the Venezuelan government has expressed strong discontent with Brazil’s veto of its BRICS membership application, deeming it a continuation of hostile and exclusionary policies reminiscent of the Bolsonaro administration. This political impasse highlights ongoing tensions within the region regarding electoral legitimacy and international recognition of governing bodies. As BRICS continues to expand, the divergent stances of its member states pose significant challenges for nations like Venezuela seeking allegiances on the global stage.
Original Source: www.brasildefato.com.br
