Venezuela's President Nicolas Maduro has been sworn in for a third presidential term, sparking controversy and opposition claims of a 'coup d'etat.' The ceremony, held in a small room of the National Assembly, marked a departure from previous grand ceremonies.
Maduro, sworn in by National Assembly leader Jorge Rodríguez, declared during his speech that the power vested in him was not influenced by foreign entities. The event was attended by leaders from Nicaragua and Cuba, as well as representatives from China and Russia.
The opposition, led by Maria Corina Machado and Edmundo Gonzalez, has contested the election results, claiming Gonzalez as the rightful winner. Independent observers and several nations, including the United States, have supported the opposition's claims.
In response to Maduro's inauguration, the US extended Temporary Protected Status for eligible Venezuelan nationals and announced rewards for information leading to the arrest of Maduro and his officials. The US also imposed visa restrictions and sanctions on Maduro-aligned officials.
International condemnation of Maduro's inauguration has been widespread, with the UK, EU, Canada, and the G7 imposing sanctions on individuals associated with Maduro's regime. The G7 criticized the lack of democratic legitimacy in Maduro's presidency.
Protests erupted in Venezuela ahead of the inauguration, with Machado emerging to speak at an event. Despite attempts to suppress dissent, Machado emphasized that Venezuelans had shown courage and love in their peaceful demonstrations.
The situation in Venezuela remains tense, with ongoing disputes over the election results and Maduro's legitimacy as president.
