The European Union has refused to recognize the legitimacy of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro’s election victory, citing concerns over the integrity of the country’s presidential election last month. The decision was announced by EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Josep Borrell, who stated that while Maduro may remain in office, the EU cannot accept his democratic legitimacy due to the lack of verifiable evidence supporting his win.
The EU’s 27 foreign ministers met in Brussels, Belgium, to discuss the situation in Venezuela, where Maduro’s government has been accused of suppressing dissent and cracking down on opposition. The Venezuelan National Electoral Council, which is loyal to Maduro, declared him the winner of the election without publishing complete voting tallies, sparking widespread criticism from the opposition and international observers.
The opposition party, led by Maria Corina Machado, has presented evidence suggesting that their candidate, Edmundo Gonzalez, actually won the election by a significant margin. Gonzalez participated in the EU meeting via video link, where he likely presented his case against Maduro’s regime.
Maduro’s government has responded to the opposition by implementing authoritarian measures, including the arrest of nearly 1,800 people who participated in demonstrations against him. These individuals are currently being held as political prisoners, according to reports.
While the EU’s declaration may not have a significant impact on the situation in Venezuela, Borrell emphasized that it sends a “strong statement” and is an important first step in addressing the country’s democratic crisis. The EU’s decision is seen as a symbolic gesture of support for the Venezuelan opposition and a condemnation of Maduro’s regime.
