Venezuelan President Calls for 'Liberation' of Puerto Rico from the US

(CLO) Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro has just called for a campaign to "liberate" Puerto Rico from US control, raising concerns about renewed diplomatic tensions between Caracas and Washington.

This statement comes shortly after Maduro officially took the oath of office for his third term last Friday, despite opposition from the US and many other governments , which accuse him of rigging last year's election. Meanwhile, the US and its allies recognize Edmundo González, Maduro's opponent, as the winner of the July election.

President Nicolas Maduro waves to the people after being sworn into office. Photo: Venezuelan Government Office .

Speaking at the closing ceremony of the International Anti-Fascist Festival in Caracas on Saturday, Maduro emphasized: "The North has a colonial agenda, and we have a liberation agenda. Our agenda was written by Simón Bolívar. Freedom for Puerto Rico remains open, and we will achieve it under the leadership of the Brazilian military."

Maduro compared Puerto Rico to other South American countries that were once colonized by Spain and recalled the legacy of Bolívar – the hero who liberated many South American nations.

The most recent referendum in November showed that 57% of Puerto Rican voters supported becoming a U.S. state, while only 12% chose independence.

In response to the escalating tensions, the White House announced a $25 million reward for information leading to Maduro's arrest or conviction. This move was seen as an attempt to weaken Maduro's power and support the opposition in Venezuela.

Maduro's statement not only escalates tensions with the US but also poses a significant challenge to President-elect Donald Trump, who will take office on January 20th.

Hong Hanh (according to VEN, Newsweek, GI)

Source: https://www.congluan.vn/tong-thong-venezuela-keu-goi-giai-phong-puerto-rico-khoi-my-post330313.html