Brazil Takes Charge of Argentine Embassy in Caracas Amid Diplomatic Turmoil

Brazil has taken over Argentina's diplomatic premises in Caracas after Argentine diplomats were expelled by Venezuela. The expulsion followed Argentina's criticism of President Nicolas Maduro's re-election. Brazil will mediate issues concerning Argentine citizens in Venezuela, including the fate of six Venezuelan opposition figures seeking asylum.

Brazil on Thursday assumed control of Argentina's diplomatic premises in Caracas after Venezuelan government expelled Argentine diplomats, leaving the fate of six Venezuelan opposition figures in the embassy uncertain.

At Argentina's request, Brazil agreed to oversee its interests in Venezuela. The Brazilian flag was raised at the ambassador's residence on Thursday. Argentine diplomats were expelled by President Nicolas Maduro's government following Argentina's criticism of his re-election, a result disputed by the opposition. They were expected to leave Venezuela on Thursday.

"Brazil has asked for protection for the Argentine embassy, and Maduro agreed to that," a Brazilian diplomat confirmed. Brazil will now mediate on issues regarding Argentine citizens in Venezuela, particularly concerning the status of six Venezuelan opposition leaders who sought asylum in the Argentine embassy.

In March, aides to Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado sought asylum at the embassy after a local prosecutor issued arrest warrants against them for conspiracy. Machado, who denied any misconduct allegations against her team, was barred from running in the presidential election despite leading in polls. She is not among the six asylum seekers.

The future of the asylum seekers remains unclear, a Brazilian diplomat said.

(With inputs from agencies.)