Carlos Alberto Montaner, a Cuban author, journalist and analyst of Latin American affairs who has been in exile for several years, does not rule out that the presence of the Cuban Minister of Technology Ramiro Valdez in Venezuela is intended as "repressive," rather than to help solve a serious energy crisis facing Venezuela.

"This is largely intended to intimidate the power hierarchy," said Montaner in an interview with Unión Radio, a Venezuelan radio station. "Fidel Castro would not send him (Valdez) unless Chávez agrees, and Chávez would only request Valdez's help amidst a very uncomfortable position," added Montaner.

"This is very bad news for Venezuelans," said the Cuban author. "The fact that this man has been sent to bring order to Venezuela is a terrible humiliation for Venezuelan people, for Venezuelan military officials, and for the power hierarchy."