Venezuela Expresses Outrage Over Brazil’s Veto of Brics Membership

Venezuela has criticized Brazil’s veto of its Brics membership, labeling it an “immoral aggression.” The backlash follows increased diplomatic rifts due to allegations of electoral misconduct in Venezuela. President Maduro’s efforts to secure a place in Brics have been met with resistance, despite Russian support. The situation illustrates the broader geopolitical tensions within the Brics framework and between South American nations.

Venezuela has expressed its profound disappointment and anger at Brazil’s decision to veto its inclusion into the Brics group, which comprises prominent emerging economies. The Venezuelan foreign ministry criticized the decision made during the recent summit in Russia, terming it as an “immoral aggression.” Diplomatic relations between Venezuela and Brazil have further deteriorated since the contested presidential election in Venezuela in July, which President Nicolás Maduro claims to have won, despite strong evidence indicating that opposition candidate Edmundo González emerged victorious by a significant margin. Although Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva initially endorsed Maduro, he later stated that he would not recognize the election results until a detailed breakdown of the votes was released. Several foreign governments have similarly acknowledged the opposition’s electoral victory but have refrained from formally recognizing González as the incumbent president. The Venezuelan foreign ministry remarked, “The Brazilian foreign ministry has decided to maintain the veto that [former Brazilian president] Jair Bolsonaro has applied against Venezuela for years, reproducing the hatred, exclusion and intolerance promoted from the centres of power in the West.” The ministry added that the Venezuelan populace feels “indignation and shame at this inexplicable and immoral aggression.” Venezuela’s efforts to join the Brics have included a surprise appearance by President Maduro at the summit, where he proclaimed that Venezuela is “part of the Brics family.” Russian President Vladimir Putin, who convened the summit, acknowledged solidarity with Venezuela’s stance but noted that membership would require consensus among current members. He commented on Brazil’s position, saying, “We know Brazil’s position. We don’t agree; Venezuela is fighting for its survival.” Despite plans for President Lula to attend the summit, he canceled due to an injury sustained at home. Putin expressed his commitment to facilitate the mending of relations between the two nations. The Brics alliance initially consisted of Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa; however, last year additional members such as Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, and the United Arab Emirates were welcomed. Lula has advocated for the Brics as a means of reforming global governance, aiming to amplify the voice of developing nations and combat what he perceives as the “paralysis” of global institutions. Nevertheless, critics highlight internal contradictions within the Brics, particularly given the ongoing conflict involving Russia and the fractious dynamics between China and India. The recent summit in Kazan was interpreted as an opportunity for President Putin to assert that international isolation efforts following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine had failed. However, the endeavor to bolster the Brics as a counterbalance to Western influence has unveiled additional divisions, resulting in strained relations between Brazil and Venezuela, reaching a historical low since Lula’s re-election.

The context of this situation stems from Venezuela’s desire to join the Brics group, which has gained traction as a significant platform for emerging economies. The Brics, originally formed by Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, recently expanded to include new member countries, reflecting a growing alliance among nations seeking to articulate their interests outside Western hegemonic structures. Relations between Venezuela and Brazil have shifted amid political turmoil stemming from a contentious election in Venezuela, which has resulted in significant diplomatic rifts. President Maduro’s administration has faced international scrutiny, particularly regarding the legitimacy of electoral processes and human rights.

In summary, Venezuela’s exclusion from the Brics group, sanctioned by Brazil, has sparked significant diplomatic tension, compounded by allegations regarding the legitimacy of recent elections in Venezuela. The strained relations reflect broader geopolitical dynamics within the Brics framework and the global landscape, particularly in the context of President Putin’s efforts to solidify the alliance amidst internal challenges. Venezuela’s vocal criticism underscores the existing divide between ideologies and diplomatic approaches in Latin America, particularly the impact of past administrations on current foreign policy.

Original Source: www.bbc.com