July 28, 2006
VP Rangel: Venezuela has the right to restock the Armed Force

(El Universal) - "Venezuelan Executive Vice-President José Vicente Rangel replied to US ambassador to Venezuela William Brownfield, who said his government is asking for 'transparency' in Venezuela purchase of military equipment from Russia.

In a press release, Rangel reminded the US diplomat that Venezuela 'has the right to restock the National Armed Force and has no problem to account for this to the international community.'

Rangel stressed that the United States 'could actually have some problems (of accountability), given its systematic violation of the international order.'

The official said the US foreign policy is 'wrong and chaotic,' and is characterized by the contradictions of its spokespeople".