Venezuela declared ‘persona non grata’ the EU ambassador

Venezuela declared the head of the EU delegation to Venezuela as persona non grata following the new EU sanctions and restrictive measures. The EU considers this declaration as wholly unwarranted and contrary to the EU’s objective of developing relations and building partnerships in third countries.

On the initiative of the High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, the Council agreed that the head of the Mission of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela to the European Union be declared persona non grata. This is a response to the decision by the Venezuelan government that worsen EU Venezuela relations.

19 officials added to the EU sanctions list (22/02/2021)

The Council added 19 leading Venezuelan officials to the list of those subject to restrictive measures, due to their role in acts and decisions undermining democracy and the rule of law in the country, or as a result of serious human rights violations. This decision follows on from the Council conclusions of 25 January 2021, which indicated that the EU stood ready to adopt additional targeted restrictive measures, in view of the deteriorating situation in Venezuela following the December 2020 elections.

Council conclusions of 25 January 2021

Why EU has entered in World War of sanctions on Venezuela?

The individuals added to the list are responsible, notably, for undermining the oppositions’ electoral rights and the democratic functioning of the National Assembly, and for serious violations of human rights and restrictions of fundamental freedoms. The decision brings to 55 the total number of individuals subject to sanctions, which include travel bans and asset freezes. These targeted measures are designed not to have adverse humanitarian effects or unintended consequences for the Venezuelan population, and can be reversed.

The EU continue to engage and work with all stakeholders in Venezuela to promote peaceful dialogue and a democratic and sustainable solution to the crises in the country. The EU introduced restrictive measures on Venezuela in November 2017. The measures include an embargo on arms and on equipment for internal repression, and the imposition of travel bans and asset freezes on listed individuals.

eudebates EU Venezuela relations