Venezuelan opposition leader Edmundo Gonzalez recently visited the White House to meet with President Biden, following his victory in the country's presidential election in July. Gonzalez then traveled to Argentina and Panama with the election ballots to provide evidence that he, not Nicolás Maduro, is the democratically elected leader of Venezuela.
María Corina Machado, a prominent figure in the Venezuelan opposition, emphasized the landslide victory of Gonzalez and stated that they have concrete proof of their win. The opposition is gearing up for massive street protests to peacefully demand that Maduro, known for his autocratic rule that has led Venezuela to near bankruptcy, not be inaugurated as president on Friday.
Machado stressed the importance of American institutions recognizing the crisis in Venezuela as a critical national security issue for the U.S. She highlighted the potential for Venezuela to become a key ally in the region and a solution to the migration problem by creating a future that encourages Venezuelans to return voluntarily.
Addressing President-elect Donald Trump, Machado outlined Venezuela's energy potential and the opportunity to transform the country into an energy hub in partnership with the United States. Gonzalez also met with incoming National Security Advisor Cong Michael Waltz during his visit to Washington, despite Maduro's threats of arrest upon his return to Venezuela.
Machado warned of the dangers posed by the Maduro regime, citing instances of fear and repression, including the recent arrests of Americans accused of being mercenaries. The State Department expressed concern over the detentions and reiterated the U.S.'s support for a democratic resolution to the political crisis in Venezuela.
As tensions escalate in Venezuela, with reports of intimidation and violence against opposition figures, the international community continues to monitor the situation closely to ensure the protection of democracy and human rights in the region.
