Venezuela Revokes Brazil's Diplomatic Role Amid Political Tensions

Venezuela rescinded Brazil's authorization to represent Argentine interests, including overseeing the Argentine embassy where opposition figures are seeking refuge. The decision was motivated by allegations that the embassy was involved in assassination plots against Venezuelan leaders. Brazil expressed surprise and vowed to continue safeguarding Argentina's interests.

In an unexpected move, Venezuela has revoked Brazil's authorization to represent Argentine interests on its soil, including managing the Argentine embassy currently housing six opposition figures. The Venezuelan government cited evidence that the embassy was being used to plot assassinations against high-ranking officials, including President Nicolas Maduro and Vice President Delcy Rodriguez Gomez, as the reason for this abrupt decision.

Reacting to the move, Brazil expressed surprise and reaffirmed its commitment to protecting Argentine interests until Argentina designates another acceptable representative to Venezuela. Brazil underscored the inviolability of the Argentine diplomatic mission under the Vienna Conventions, highlighting that it is safeguarding six Venezuelan asylum seekers along with critical assets and archives.

Opposition members at the Argentine embassy reported surveillance and power cuts, sharing videos of men in black and government intelligence patrols. Additionally, Argentina's Foreign Ministry has urged the International Criminal Court to issue an arrest warrant for Maduro and other senior officials following what they described as a contentious election. Relations between Venezuela and Argentina remain strained following the disputed presidential election results.

(With inputs from agencies.)