Venezuela Shuts Norway Embassy Following Machado Nobel Peace Prize

Venezuela has closed its embassy in Norway. The move comes just days after opposition leader Maria Corina Machado won the Nobel Peace Prize. President Nicolas Maduro’s government ordered the closure. This action signals a sharp diplomatic break.

The decision was announced by Venezuela’s foreign ministry. According to Reuters, Norway has been a key mediator in Venezuelan political talks. This closure is seen as a direct response to the Nobel Committee’s decision.

A Swift Diplomatic Rejection

Venezuela cited an internal “reorganisation” of its missions. The embassy in Oslo was abruptly shut down. Phone services there were disconnected shortly after.

Norway’s government expressed regret over the move. A spokeswoman for the foreign ministry confirmed the closure. She stressed that the Nobel Peace Prize is independent of the Norwegian government.

Venezuela also announced the closure of its embassy in Australia. Simultaneously, it plans to open new missions in Zimbabwe and Burkina Faso. The government stated this was to strengthen ties with the “Global South.”

Deepening Political Conflict

Maria Corina Machado was awarded the prize on October 10. The Nobel Committee recognized her fight for democratic rights. It praised her struggle for a peaceful transition from dictatorship.

President Maduro’s government has not officially commented on the award. However, on Sunday, Maduro referred to Machado as a “demonic witch.” This term is frequently used by his administration to discredit her.

Machado is currently in hiding. She has stated she fears for her life and freedom. From her undisclosed location, she told AFP that Maduro’s time is up. She offered him a negotiated exit with guarantees.

The closure of the Venezuela Norway embassy marks a significant escalation. It underscores the regime’s isolation following the Nobel recognition. The diplomatic rift deepens Venezuela’s political crisis.

Thought you’d like to know-

Why did Venezuela close its embassy in Norway?

Venezuela’s government cited an internal reorganization of its diplomatic missions. The move followed the Norwegian Nobel Committee’s decision to award the peace prize to opposition figure Maria Corina Machado.

What is the relationship between Norway and Venezuela?

Norway has acted as a mediator in talks between Maduro’s government and the opposition. These on-and-off negotiations, including the Barbados Agreement, aimed to resolve the country’s political crisis.

Where is Maria Corina Machado now?

Maria Corina Machado is currently in hiding. She has stated publicly that she fears for her safety and freedom from the Maduro regime.

How has Nicolas Maduro reacted to the Nobel Prize?

Nicolas Maduro’s government has not issued an official statement. However, Maduro himself has since used derogatory language, calling Machado a “demonic witch.”

What other diplomatic changes did Venezuela announce?

Alongside closing the Norway embassy, Venezuela is shutting its mission in Australia. It will open new embassies in Zimbabwe and Burkina Faso to align with its geopolitical focus.