Tehran: Venezuelan Ambassador to Tehran Jos© Rafael Silva Aponte has reiterated that Venezuela’s alliances with Iran, China, and Russia are of strategic importance, emphasizing that the nation will not allow any foreign government to influence its foreign policy. In an exclusive interview with IRNA, the ambassador stated that Venezuela is committed to an independent foreign policy rooted in Bolivarian diplomacy, which prioritizes peace, self-determination, and non-intervention.

According to Islamic Republic News Agency, Ambassador Aponte dismissed reports from US media alleging that President Nicol¡s Maduro’s administration had acquiesced to Washington’s demands to distance itself from Iran, Russia, and China to avoid a potential US military strike. He emphasized that Venezuela’s alliances with these nations are founded on mutual cooperation and respect for sovereignty, contributing to what he described as an emerging multipolar world.

The United States has been bolstering its military presence in the Caribbean Sea, citing a need to counter drug trafficking. However, Caracas views this as preparation for military action intended to overthrow Maduro’s government. In response, Venezuela is enhancing its military readiness and seeking support from its strategic partners, Iran, Russia, and China.

Ambassador Aponte criticized Washington’s rationale as a pretext for intervention, aimed at establishing a puppet government in Venezuela to exploit the country’s substantial oil reserves. He argued that this pattern of intervention is a longstanding US strategy against nations that resist its demands.

The ambassador expressed concerns that the US’s aggressive actions and rhetoric signal a potential military attack that could have dire consequences for the entire region and even American citizens. He noted that President Maduro has consistently advocated for dialogue with the US, but insists that it be based on mutual respect.

Venezuela’s stance remains one of maximum preparedness and defiance in the face of continued threats and ‘maximum pressure,’ as described by the envoy. He characterized the Venezuelan populace as inherently ‘anti-imperialist and anti-colonialist,’ committed to resisting external domination.