Why it matters:
Diaz-Canel’s remarks highlight growing tensions between leftist Latin American governments and Western institutions. The backlash reflects a broader ideological divide over who is recognized as a promoter of democracy versus a source of instability in the region.
The big picture:
Machado, a prominent critic of Venezuela’s President Nicolás Maduro, has long received support from Western countries for her so-called "pro-democracy stance". However, Cuba and its allies view her as a polarizing figure who has called for foreign intervention and fueled unrest. The controversy surrounding her award underscores the politicization of international recognition in Latin America’s polarized landscape.
What he's saying:
“It is shameful that this prize was awarded to someone who incites military intervention in her homeland,” Díaz-Canel wrote on X.
“The politicization, bias, and discrediting of the Norwegian Nobel Committee has reached unprecedented proportions,” he added.
Key points:
- Díaz-Canel denounced the 2025 Nobel Peace Prize decision as “shameful and biased.”
- He accused Machado of promoting foreign intervention and inciting violent protests in Venezuela.
- The remarks reflect Cuba’s support for Venezuela’s government and its opposition to Western narratives.
- The dispute highlights deep ideological divides across Latin America over the meaning and interpretation of “peace” and “democracy."
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