Divisions over the Ukraine war cause a rift at EU-LatAm summit that was supposed to be a love-in
European Union and Latin American leaders have concluded a summit that was supposed to be a love-in after eight years of separation, but instead ended with aggravation over the failure to unanimously support even a bland statement on Russia’s invasion ...
BRUSSELS — BRUSSELS (AP) — European Union and Latin American leaders concluded a summit that was supposed to be a love-in after eight years of separation, but instead ended Tuesday with aggravation over the failure to unanimously support even a bland statement on Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
Europe's fervent support of Ukraine clashed with the more distant or neutral approach pervasive in the 33-nation Community of Latin American and Caribbean States. What should have been a mere detail in a landmark summit celebrating economic ties and fresh investment became its encompassing theme.
In the end, the shadow of Russian President Vladimir Putin hovered over the two-day meeting because Nicaragua refused to join 59 other nations, including Cuba and Venezuela, in a common criticism of the war.
“All the select members are aligned except Nicaragua," French President Emmanuel Macron said. “I do respect the internal process not to outvote just one member.”
There also was criticism and disappointment on the Latin American side.
“We’re very sorry for the situation. And really, I mean, we’re very surprised that there are members of our group which oppose any resolution concerning this war,” said Chilean Foreign Minister Alberto van Klaveren. “It’s a war of aggression.”
Common conclusions are traditionally issued at the end of such summits, and Tuesday's lack of such a statement dampened a meeting that otherwise was a warm blanket of words and commitments between trusted
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