Venezuela's socialist govt happy over removal of John Bolton

A senior official in Venezuela's embattled socialist government has expressed delight over the firing of US national security adviser John Bolton, whose hawkish views and tough rhetoric were constant irritants for the region's leftist leaders.

The official said on Tuesday Bolton's departure is particularly welcome given his role in the US imposition of crippling oil sanctions and the almost daily attacks on social media aimed at socialist President Nicolas Maduro.

"On days like this, the Comandate would treat himself to some sweet papaya," said the official, referring to the late President Hugo Chavez's preference for a traditional Venezuelan dessert.

The official agreed to discuss Bolton only if not quoted by name, because relations between Venezuela and the United States are already tense. But it wasn't clear if the US stance on Venezuela might change without Bolton.

Some analysts even said Maduro has more to lose from a more diplomatic, less polarising replacement as the US supports opposition efforts to remove him as president.

"Maduro is likely thinking 'good riddance' and that this is sweet revenge for all the macho posturing," said Chris Sabatini, senior fellow for Latin America at Chatham House in London. "But that would be a mistake. Bolton's strategy was flawed from the beginning and his departure may pave the way to bring in a more professional, effective diplomat that could be a greater threat to Maduro's autocracy."