Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro has ordered the closure of his country's embassy and consulates in Ecuador as a show of solidarity with Mexico. This decision comes in response to Ecuadorian authorities raiding the Mexican embassy in Quito to arrest former Vice President Jorge Glas, who was granted asylum by Mexico.
Maduro expressed full support for Mexico's request to have Ecuador suspended from the United Nations, citing violations of international law. The raid on the Mexican embassy drew condemnation globally, as diplomatic premises are considered inviolable under the Vienna treaties.
Ecuadorian President Daniel Noboa defended the raid as necessary for national security, claiming it was to apprehend Glas for criminal convictions, not political reasons. Mexico, outraged by the violation of its sovereignty, severed diplomatic ties with Ecuador and recalled its mission.
During a virtual meeting of regional leaders, Maduro announced the recall of all diplomatic personnel from Ecuador until international law is upheld. He echoed Mexico's call for Ecuador's expulsion from the U.N. until an apology is issued and Glas's asylum recognized.
Despite the escalating diplomatic crisis, Noboa faced criticism for his absence at the regional gathering. Maduro accused him of evading responsibility and urged transparency in addressing the situation.
The closure of Venezuela's diplomatic missions in Ecuador adds to the complexities of the situation, impacting the significant Venezuelan migrant population in the country. Ecuador hosts over 475,000 Venezuelans, with more than half living permanently and legally.
