BTN News: Bolivia has called back its ambassador from Argentina. This move came after Argentine President Javier Milei made a controversial statement. Milei said the alleged coup attempt against Bolivian President Luis Arce was a “false accusation.”
MarÃa Nela Prada, the Bolivian Minister and presidential spokesperson, announced, “Our ambassador to Argentina, Ramiro Tapia, has been called back to the government headquarters for consultations.”
Former President Evo Morales Also Criticizes Milei on Social Media
Former Bolivian President Evo Morales criticized Milei on social media. Morales said, “We strongly condemn President Milei’s interference in Bolivian affairs. The Bolivian people will handle their issues.” He also added, “Despite differences with the current government, we recognize Milei as an adversary of the people. Bolivia deserves respect!”
Interestingly, Morales had earlier questioned the official account of the coup attempt. He supported claims of a self-coup allegedly approved by Arce, according to accusations by General Juan José Zúñiga and other ex-military leaders.
Protesters Gather at Argentine Embassy in La Paz Demanding Expulsion of Argentine Ambassador
On Monday evening, protesters gathered at the Argentine embassy in La Paz. They displayed signs like “Respect Bolivia” and “Milei, retract your statement.” They announced plans to maintain a vigil, demanding the expulsion of the Argentine ambassador.
Bolivia Strongly Condemns Milei’s Statements
Early Monday, the Bolivian Foreign Ministry issued a statement condemning Milei’s comments. Milei had spoken about the events of June 26. On that day, military forces attempted to storm the presidential palace to overthrow President Arce. The ministry’s statement said peaceful coexistence and brotherhood between nations should not be disrupted by selfish interests or fascist ideas. This indirectly criticized Milei’s extreme views.
Milei had claimed intelligence reports confirmed the troop mobilization was fraudulent. He said the official story was unconvincing and argued that Bolivia’s ruling party controls all branches of government and the military.
Bolivian Foreign Ministry Expresses Regret Over Political Interests Threatening Stability
The Bolivian Foreign Ministry expressed regret that internal and external political interests were involved in the 2019 constitutional crisis. These interests were once again threatening Bolivia’s stability. In 2019, during protests after Morales was forced to resign and leave the country, Argentina, then under Mauricio Macri, sent military equipment used to suppress protests, resulting in about 40 deaths.
The ministry rejected Milei’s statements about political prisoners and the failed coup. They urged respect for sovereignty and non-interference in line with the UN Charter and international law. The statement concluded by appreciating the support from Argentine voices condemning the failed coup and showing solidarity with Bolivia.
