Despite the tense situation in Venezuela, there is no reason for concern
ORANJESTAD – On January 10, 2025, Nicolás Maduro, Venezuela’s re-elected president, was innaugurated. The Kingdom of the Netherlands does not recognize the results of the Venezuelan elections, as the European Union had requested Nicolás Maduro to prove his victory and publish the electoral records. However, Maduro’s regime has refused to comply with this request. For this reason, the Kingdom of the Netherlands refuses to recognize Nicolás Maduro's victory or his inauguration as the President of Venezuela for the next presidential term.
This position, by the Kingdom of the Netherlands, created some tension in the relationship with Venezuela. As a result, Nicolás Maduro decided that the Dutch embassy in Caracas must reduce its diplomatic staff. There are currently six Dutch staff members in Caracas, of which three will have to leave the country. Those remaining will include the ambassador, two other staff members, and local employees. Despite the reduction in personnel, consular work and visa applications will continue, with the ambassador, supported by local staff, to ensure these matters are handled appropriately.
Maduro’s decision was, clearly, not well-received by the Netherlands. In response, the Dutch Foreign Minister, Caspar Veldkamp, ordered the Venezuelan embassy in The Hague to reduce its diplomatic staff. There are four Venezuelan diplomats in the Netherlands, of whom two must leave. This is undoubtedly a countermeasure by the Netherlands in response to Maduro’s decision.
These developments brought further tension to the relationship between the Netherlands and Venezuela. However, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has assured that consulates will continue their work and that consular services at the Dutch embassy in Caracas for Aruban citizens will remain operational. As for the Venezuelan consulate in Aruba, its activities will also continue as usual.
Regarding defense, the Prime Minister of Aruba met last week with the Kingdom’s Defense Minister, Ruben Brekelmans, who was in Aruba. This topic was discussed extensively during the meeting. Minister Brekelmans assured that Aruba has no reason to be concerned. This situation, though tense is closely monitored so that Aruba can be prepared for any eventuality.
The Prime Minister stressed that the situation and human rights violations in Venezuela are highly concerning issues and have been a priority on her agenda for the past seven years. However, Venezuela must resolve this internally. At this time, Aruba can only join in prayer for a swift resolution to the situation in Venezuela.