US, Russia fail in rival bids for UN action on Venezuela

UNITED NATIONS- Reuters

Russia and the United States have been at loggerheads over a U.S.-led campaign for international recognition of Juan Guaido, the Venezuelan opposition leader and head of the country’s elected National Assembly, over President Nicholas Maduro. Guaido last month declared himself the interim head of state.

Russia and China vetoed a U.S.-drafted U.N. Security Council resolution calling for a free and fair presidential election in Venezuela and unhindered aid access. The U.S. text garnered a minimum nine votes - forcing the double veto, while South Africa also voted no. Three countries abstained.

The council then voted on a rival Russian draft that aimed to express support for a political solution and back the Venezuelan government as the primary coordinator of international assistance efforts in the country.

The Russian text failed after only four council members voted in favor of it. Four abstained and the rest were against. A council resolution needs nine votes in favor and no vetoes by Russia, China, France, Britain or the United States to pass.

In the meantime, Guaido, visiting Brazil to drum up support for his bid to push for a change of government in his country, said on Feb. 28 he will return to Caracas by March 4 despite threats of imprisonment.

Guaido said the leftist “regime” of Maduro was “weak, lacking support in Venezuela and international recognition.”