In a controversial statement, Maduro defies the Brazilian veto and claims that Venezuela is already part of the BRICS group
The relationship between Maduro's Venezuela and Brazil is far from monotonous. Recently, an episode involving Brazil's veto on Venezuela's entry into the BRICS rekindled debates on international politics and regional integration.
During the 16th BRICS meeting in Kazan, Russia, President Lula vetoed Venezuela's entry into the bloc. decision was controversial, especially because Caracas maintains a close relationship with Moscow, an influential partner within the bloc.
Russian President Vladimir Putin made clear his disagreement with Brazil's stance, highlighting the difficult situation Venezuela is facing.
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The controversy in BRICS with Maduro
Nicolás Maduro did not let the issue go unnoticed. In a live broadcast, the Venezuelan leader stated that his country is part of the BRICS, despite the blockade imposed by Brazil.
For Maduro, BRICS is a strategic platform that could strengthen Venezuela’s position on the international stage. In his weekly program, “Maduro Live Suddenly“, he made a point of reaffirming that Venezuela is already an integral part of the group, highlighting the participation of its ministers in related events.
"Our minister, who is vice-president of the government for communication and culture, [was] in São Paulo, Brazil, ratifying that we are part of BRICS“He said.
The distance between Brazil and Venezuela
Since Nicolás Maduro practically declared himself the winner of the elections that were widely questioned as fraudulent, the relationship with Brazil has deteriorated.
The president Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva chose not to recognize the result of the election, marking a virtual rupture with the Venezuelan government. This position led to a series of disagreements between the two leaders.
The Venezuelan response was blunt. The Venezuelan Foreign Ministry described the veto on BRICS as a “anti-Latin American attitude” and summoned his ambassador in Brasilia, Manuel Vadell, for consultations. In addition, direct criticism was made of Lula’s advisor, Celso Amorim, labeled as “messenger of American imperialismo ".
A sign of rapprochement?
Despite the tensions, recent days have brought signs that the climate between the two countries may be changing. Manuel Vadell recently announced his return to Brazil, suggesting an attempt to normalize diplomatic relations.
This decision came shortly after statements by Lula about the Venezuelan electoral process, which were interpreted by Maduro as a “wise reflection”.
Lula stated that it is not up to Brazil to question Venezuela's internal decisions, a position that pleased the Chavista leader.Each country must solve its own problems“Maduro said, echoing the Brazilian president’s words. The exchange of compliments, albeit subtle, indicates that both governments may be seeking common ground to overcome their differences.
Geopolitics behind the crisis
It is important to understand that relations between Brazil and Venezuela are influenced by complex geopolitics. On the one hand, Brazil seeks to maintain a position of regional leadership. On the other, Venezuela, isolated by sanctions and with a weakened economy, sees BRICS as an opportunity for international projection and relief from its internal crises.
Furthermore, Caracas' close relationship with Moscow and Beijing adds an extra layer of complexity to the scenario, putting Brazil in a delicate position.