Mercosur Summit Becomes Stage for Diplomatic Rift
A significant diplomatic clash unfolded on Saturday, December 20, 2025, at the Mercosur summit held in Foz do Iguaçu, Brazil. Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva and Argentine President Javier Milei publicly expressed starkly opposing views on the situation in Venezuela and the United States' strategy towards the nation. The disagreement overshadowed other agenda items, including discussions on a trade deal with the European Union.
Lula Warns of 'Humanitarian Catastrophe'
President Lula, in his opening remarks, issued a strong caution against any armed intervention in Venezuela. He stated that such action would lead to a 'humanitarian catastrophe for the hemisphere and a dangerous precedent for the world.' Lula's concerns were amplified by the recent increase in US military presence in the Caribbean and statements from US President Donald Trump, who had not ruled out the possibility of war with Venezuela. The Brazilian leader emphasized the importance of diplomacy and multilateralism in resolving regional conflicts. Brazil reportedly declined to support a ministerial resolution proposed by Argentina and Paraguay that aimed to condemn human rights violations in Venezuela.
Milei Endorses US Pressure, Calls for Stronger Stance
In contrast, President Milei, a staunch ally of Donald Trump, voiced strong support for the US approach to Venezuela. He declared, 'Argentina welcomes the pressure from the United States and Donald Trump to free the Venezuelan people. The time for a timid approach on this matter has run out.' Milei characterized the government of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro as a 'narco-terrorist' regime and an 'atrocious and inhumane dictatorship' that casts a 'dark shadow over our region.' He urged other Mercosur member states to adopt a similar assertive stance and condemn what he termed an 'authoritarian experiment.' Milei also expressed support for Venezuelan opposition leader Corina Machado and called for the release of Argentine national Nahuel Gallo, who is reportedly detained in Venezuela.
Broader Implications for Regional Unity
The public disagreement highlighted deep ideological divisions within the Mercosur bloc regarding regional policy and international relations. Venezuela, which was suspended from Mercosur in 2016, remains a contentious issue among member states. The summit, also attended by Uruguayan President Yamandu Orsi and Paraguay's Santiago Pena, was initially expected to focus on advancing a long-negotiated trade agreement with the European Union, which has now been postponed to January. The contrasting positions of Brazil and Argentina underscore the challenges in forging a unified regional front on critical geopolitical matters.
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