US Secretary of State Marco Rubio engaged in a conversation with Venezuelan opposition leaders Edmundo González Urrutia and María Corina Machado on Wednesday, as confirmed by the State Department. During the discussion, Rubio reiterated the US's recognition of González Urrutia as the 'rightful president' of Venezuela.
Rubio commended the Venezuelan people for their bravery in the face of repression under Nicolás Maduro, who recently began his third term as president on January 10. This move has been met with skepticism from various countries worldwide, questioning the legitimacy of Maduro's victory in the disputed presidential election held in July.
Furthermore, Rubio expressed the US's unwavering support for the restoration of democracy in Venezuela and emphasized the urgent need for the release of all political prisoners. This stance aligns with the peaceful democratic aspirations of the Venezuelan populace.
Following the conversation, both González Urrutia and Corina Machado expressed their gratitude towards Rubio for his engagement. González Urrutia highlighted the significance of Rubio's support, stating, 'This gesture demonstrates the priority that Venezuela has on its agenda and its commitment to our struggle for freedom. Thank you, Secretary! Their support is a key impetus to continue advancing towards a free Venezuela.'
In a separate development, Venezuela's Interior Minister Diosdado Cabello expressed hope for a 'respectful' and 'transparent' relationship with the United States following President Donald Trump's inauguration.
