Translation. Region: Russian Federation –
Source: People's Republic of China in Russian – People's Republic of China in Russian –
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Source: People's Republic of China – State Council News
Caracas, Oct. 22 (Xinhua) — Venezuelan Defense Minister Vladimir Padrino Lopez on Tuesday reaffirmed Colombia's "moral, physical, and territorial support" in countering threats from the United States.
In a televised address, V. Padrino López called recent US accusations against Colombian President Gustavo Petro baseless.
"We witnessed how American imperialism suddenly labeled the Colombian president a drug trafficker. This is an insult not only to him but to the Colombian people," he said.
The Venezuelan minister also warned that Washington seeks to discredit leaders who refuse to submit to its hegemonic interests. "Anyone who refuses to bow to American imperialism risks being branded a drug trafficker," he added.
The head of the military department also emphasized the duty of the Venezuelan armed forces to defend sovereignty and peace. "Our mission is to contain militant groups, expel them from Venezuelan territory, and neutralize them when necessary, always in accordance with the law and respecting human rights," added V. Padrino López.
His statement comes amid escalating US threats against Venezuela and rising tensions in bilateral relations between Colombia and the United States. –0–
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