Support from China and Russia gives Maduro security, expert tells CNN

ESPM International Relations professor Denilde Holzhacker, in an interview with CNN Behind the Scenes analyzed the current political situation in Venezuela after the disputed presidential elections. According to the expert, the support of countries such as China and Russia provides security for the internal repression actions of Nicolás Maduro’s government.

Holzhacker stressed that Maduro’s presentation of the electoral records, as promised, will probably not resolve the country’s political crisis. “The chance of receiving records that are different and that bring a different result than what has already been proclaimed is quite small,” the professor said.

The expert stressed that the crisis will continue, as the results will be contested not only by opposition groups, but also by reports from international organizations such as the Carter Center and the OAS (Organization of American States). Holzhacker suggested that a solution to the crisis could involve an independent expert evaluation of the results, a proposal that has been supported by countries such as Brazil and the United States.

“It is necessary to bring the minutes, but they need to undergo independent verification by groups that actually have the autonomy to carry out this assessment,” explained the professor.

Escalation of tension and international support

Regarding Maduro’s stance, Holzhacker noted an escalation in the Venezuelan government’s actions, moving from threatening rhetoric to effective repression against protesters and opponents. The professor attributed this more assertive stance to the support received from international powers.

“He has two very important countries that provide support, which are China and Russia. China, in fact, provides not only economic support, but also in military training and in monitoring actions in this area in Venezuela as well,” explained Holzhacker.

The expert concluded that as long as Maduro has the support of these powers, he is likely to maintain his confrontational stance. Only a change in the position of these allies, especially China, could lead to a moderation in the Venezuelan government’s actions.