Venezuela Cancels Brazil’s Custody of Diplomatic Mission Housing 6 Maduro Opponents

CARACAS, Venezuela—Venezuela’s government stated on Saturday that Brazil can no longer represent Argentina’s diplomatic interests in the country. This puts several anti-government opponents, who have been seeking asylum for months in the Argentine ambassador’s residence, at risk.

The foreign ministry of Venezuela released a statement notifying Brazil of this decision, effective immediately. The government claimed it had evidence, which it did not disclose, that the asylum seekers were plotting “terrorist” acts, including the assassination of President Nicolas Maduro and his vice president.

This move is the latest escalation in tensions between the two countries. Argentina’s president has been at the forefront of the opposition against Maduro, accusing him of trying to steal the presidential election in July. Despite strong evidence of an opposition victory, electoral authorities declared Maduro the winner. Since the election, there has been a harsh crackdown with thousands being arrested.

Among those seeking refuge in the Argentine ambassador’s residence was Magalli Meda, a former campaign chief for opposition leader María Corina Machado. She fled to the residence after facing arrest orders in March for allegedly inciting political violence.

In response, Maduro severed diplomatic ties with Argentina and turned to Brazil to act as a representative and safeguard the asylum seekers.

Brazil expressed surprise at Venezuela’s decision and noted that, as per the Vienna Convention, Argentina must name a new custodian acceptable to Venezuela, while Brazil remains responsible for the diplomatic mission’s physical integrity.

Armored vehicles from the SEBIN political police have surrounded the Argentina ambassador’s residence in Caracas since Friday, and electricity to the mission has been cut off. Meda suspects an imminent raid to arrest her and the other opponents.

Argentina’s government criticized Venezuela’s actions and appreciated Brazil’s ongoing representation. They stated that any attempt to raid the ambassadorial residence and seize the asylum seekers would be condemned internationally.

Brazil has also refused to recognize Maduro’s victory in the election and has demanded a breakdown of the results. President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva has attempted to avoid confrontation with Maduro to facilitate a regional reconciliation led by leftist leaders.

Despite diplomatic efforts, over 2,400 people have been arrested in Venezuela’s crackdown on protests and dissent. Human Rights Watch recently released a report linking security forces and pro-government groups to the deaths of protesters.