In a dramatic diplomatic move, the Venezuelan government has ordered the immediate closure of its embassy in Oslo, just days after prominent opposition figure Rocío San Miguel was awarded the prestigious Nobel Peace Prize.
The sudden shutdown represents a significant escalation in Venezuela's protest against the international recognition of San Miguel, a human rights lawyer who has been a vocal critic of President Nicolás Maduro's administration.
Diplomatic Fallout Escalates
Embassy staff were given urgent instructions to cease all operations and prepare for departure from Norway, leaving Venezuelan citizens in the region without direct consular support. The move has been condemned by international observers as an extreme response to what many see as a well-deserved recognition of San Miguel's human rights work.
"This closure sends a clear message about the Venezuelan government's attitude toward democratic principles and human rights advocacy," said Dr. Elena Torres, a Latin American political analyst. "Rather than engaging in dialogue, they're choosing diplomatic isolation."
Who is Rocío San Miguel?
Rocío San Miguel has dedicated her career to defending human rights in Venezuela, particularly focusing on military justice and civil liberties. Her organisation, Control Ciudadano, has documented numerous human rights violations and advocated for transparency in government institutions.
The Nobel Committee cited her "courageous and persistent efforts to expose truth and defend fundamental freedoms in the face of significant personal risk" when announcing the award earlier this week.
International Reaction
The international community has expressed deep concern over Venezuela's decision. Norway's Foreign Ministry issued a statement expressing regret over the embassy closure while reaffirming their commitment to supporting human rights defenders worldwide.
European Union officials have described the move as "counterproductive and concerning," while human rights organisations globally have rallied in support of San Miguel and her work.
The embassy closure marks one of the most significant diplomatic ruptures in recent Venezuela-Europe relations and raises questions about the future of international engagement with Caracas.
