Venezuelan-Spanish Diplomatic Rift Deepens Amidst Insults

Venezuela recalled its ambassador to Spain after Spanish Defense Minister Margarita Robles labeled the Venezuelan administration a 'dictatorship.' Foreign Minister Yvan Gil condemned the comments as 'insolent' and summoned the Spanish ambassador for consultations. This escalates existing tensions, especially after Spain recognized opposition leader Edmundo Gonzalez as victorious in the disputed election.

Venezuela has heightened its diplomatic spat with Spain by recalling its ambassador following derogatory remarks from Spanish Defense Minister Margarita Robles, who referred to the Venezuelan government as a 'dictatorship.'

In response, Venezuelan Foreign Minister Yvan Gil labeled Robles' comments as 'insolent, interventionist, and rude.' He has summoned Spanish Ambassador to Venezuela Ramon Santos for discussions on Friday and brought back Venezuela's ambassador, Gladys Gutierrez, for consultations.

This move comes amidst a politically charged environment where Spain recognized Edmundo Gonzalez, Venezuela's self-exiled opposition leader, as the legitimate winner of the contested presidential election, contradicting the national elections authority's declaration in favor of incumbent President Nicolas Maduro.

(With inputs from agencies.)