Chile Sends Ambassador Back to Venezuela, Easing Diplomatic Tensions

The Chilean government has decided to send its ambassador, Jaime Gazmuri, back to Venezuela after recalling him for consultations due to tensions between the two countries. The decision comes after the Nicolás Maduro regime in Venezuela moderated its tone regarding the tension generated by the murder of a Chilean military officer on Venezuelan soil.

Chilean President Gabriel Boric met with Ambassador Gazmuri and the undersecretary of Foreign Affairs to evaluate the diplomatic situation before making the decision to return the ambassador to his post in Caracas. The move seeks to reestablish dialogue with the Maduro administration, even as Chile continues to demand action to arrest the two suspects in the planned killing of Sergeant Ronald Ojeda.

Ojeda was murdered earlier this month in the Venezuelan state of Bolívar, near the border with Brazil. The Chilean Public Ministry has announced that it will request the extradition of the two Venezuelan nationals suspected of involvement in the crime.

The diplomatic row began when the Maduro government initially reacted angrily to Chile's demands for justice in the case, accusing the Chilean authorities of violating Venezuela's sovereignty. However, the tone has since softened, opening the way for the return of Ambassador Gazmuri and the restoration of normal diplomatic relations.

In a statement, the Chilean Foreign Ministry expressed its satisfaction with the decision to return Ambassador Gazmuri to Caracas. "We believe that open channels of communication are essential to addressing issues of mutual concern and advancing the interests of both nations," the statement read. The ministry also reiterated its expectation that the Venezuelan authorities will fully cooperate in bringing those responsible for Sergeant Ojeda's murder to justice.

Key Takeaways

• Chile to return ambassador to Venezuela after tensions over officer's murder.
• Maduro regime in Venezuela moderates tone, allowing diplomatic relations to resume.
• Chile demands arrest of two suspects in Sergeant Ojeda's murder and seeks extradition.
• Easing of Chile-Venezuela tensions seen as positive for regional stability in South America.
• Chile expects Venezuela to cooperate in bringing Ojeda's killers to justice.