Venezuela Cuts Ties with Paraguay After Maduro Orders Diplomatic Withdrawal Over Support for González

Jan 6, 2025, 07:16 PM

Venezuela has severed diplomatic relations with Paraguay, following statements from Paraguayan President Santiago Peña expressing support for Venezuelan opposition leader Edmundo González. The decision, announced by Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, includes the immediate withdrawal of Venezuelan diplomatic personnel from Paraguay, with Paraguay ordering the Venezuelan ambassador and staff to leave within 48 hours. This move comes in response to Peña's recognition of González as the legitimate president-elect of Venezuela, a claim made after a disputed election in July where both Maduro and González declared victory. The rupture in diplomatic ties was formalized less than 24 hours after Peña's public support for González, escalating tensions between the two South American nations. Additionally, Peña had also engaged in discussions with another opposition figure, María Corina Machado, during a virtual meeting.