The stance of the Greek government and ruling party SYRIZA with regards to the political crisis in Venezuela appeared to have turned into a cornerstone of the Greek-American relations. The US State Department seems to not be able to understand that the left-wing government in Athens has a deep-rooted “anti-imperialist” attitude.
According to exclusive information of news website hellasjournal, the US administration has complained to Greece about its stance supporting Nicolas Maduro. Citing diplomatic sources in Washington, the website reports that the State Department has made a series of “remarks” to Athens, including a démarche.
The State Department believes that The Greek stance does not allow the European Union to take a joint decision against Maduro.
In an ultimatum, the EU has warned Maduro that it will recognize Juan Guaido as interim president of Venezuela if he does not call for presidential elections by Sunday night. So far, Maduro has said there could be snap parliamentary elections.
The Greek Foreign Ministry dismissed the claim that there has been a démarche or even complaints.
At the same time, members of the US Congress, with a Greek-friendly approach have complained about the attitude of the Greek government. They argued that Greece cannon ask the American support in a series of crucial issues, but not side with the US when it comes to democracy and human rights.”
Mobilized are also Republicans of Greek origin. Congressman Gus Bilirakis has sent a letter to Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras urging him “to put Greece at the forefront of Europe’s efforts to help restore democracy in Venezuela.” Among others, he noted that “any perception that Athens supports the Maduro regime undermines Greece’s reputation in both US and the Latin America.”
Finally a courageous act by Tsipras. The US thinks that all EU countries have to be lackeys to its policies. Who cares what Washington thinks? Let the other cowards like Merkel and Macron bow down to them.