News of Bahrain
World21 May 20261 min read

Bolivia and Colombia expel each other's ambassadors

Bogota: Colombia and Bolivia have dramatically escalated a high-stakes diplomatic dispute by expelling each other's ambassadors, following sharp disagreements over the severe anti-government protests currently paralyzing Bolivia. The diplomatic rif

Editorial Team Legacy

Published 21 May 2026, 8:00 · Updated 18:14

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Bolivia and Colombia expel each other's ambassadors

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Bogota: Colombia and Bolivia have dramatically escalated a high-stakes diplomatic dispute by expelling each other's ambassadors, following sharp disagreements over the severe anti-government protests currently paralyzing Bolivia.

The diplomatic rift deepened after Colombian President Gustavo Petro publicly characterized the ongoing unrest in Bolivia as a ‘popular uprising.’

In response, Bolivia immediately ordered the expulsion of Colombia's envoy, accusing Petro of directly interfering in its internal politics. Citing the strict principle of diplomatic reciprocity, Colombia's Foreign Ministry swiftly countered by expelling Bolivia's ambassador.

This bilateral fallout comes as Bolivia confronts devastating economic pressure, characterized by severe fuel shortages and mass demands for higher wages.

Protesters have blocked major roads, demanding the immediate resignation of center-right President Rodrigo Paz. While Paz announced a cabinet reshuffle to form a more inclusive ‘economic and social council,’ he adamantly refused to negotiate with looters and vandals.

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