The National Assembly of Venezuela, dominated by pro-government members, has officially rejected the European Parliament's recognition of Edmundo González Urrutia as the president-elect of Venezuela. This decision, described as a "gross interference in the internal affairs of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela," was announced by Jorge Rodríguez, the president of the Legislative Branch, who is closely aligned with President Nicolás Maduro.
The European Parliament's resolution, which is non-binding, was passed with 309 votes in favor, calling for EU member states to acknowledge González as the legitimate president following the disputed July elections. González, who claims he faced persecution from the Maduro government, has recently sought asylum in Spain after escaping Venezuela under duress.
González's assertion that he was coerced into signing a letter acknowledging his electoral defeat has raised further questions about the legitimacy of the election results, which have been contested by various international observers. The National Electoral Council (CNE), loyal to Maduro, reported a victory for him, but independent voting records suggest otherwise.
- The situation in Venezuela remains tense as international scrutiny intensifies following the controversial elections. Countries like Spain, Italy, and the United States are calling for transparency in the electoral process, demanding the publication of detailed voting records to validate claims made by both sides.
- González's exile in Spain has led to increased diplomatic tensions between Spain and Venezuela, with Venezuelan officials urging the severance of diplomatic ties. The political landscape in Venezuela continues to be marked by division, as the opposition seeks to gain international support to challenge Maduro's government.
