Russia rejects criticism of Venezuelan top court's ruling

The Russian Government sent a clear message about Venezuelan political situation stemming from President Hugo Chávez's failure to take oath on January 10.

Russian authorities called for non-interference in Venezuela's political situation and full compliance with the Venezuelan Constitution, "which shall be construed only by the relevant legal bodies," the Russian Foreign Affairs Office said in a press statement.

"In this context, we take note of the ruling issued by the Constitutional Court, Supreme Tribunal of Justice, regarding the legitimacy of delaying President Hugo Chávez's swearing-in ceremony," the communiqué read.

The Russian Government also firmly rejected "any attempt to ‘correct' this understanding and exert influence from abroad in order to question the decision."

"It is pivotal not to allow destabilization in Venezuela. Political forces both inside and outside the country should take that into account. Russia calls upon those actors to take a serious and responsible stance," the document added.  

Translated by Jhean Cabrera