On Friday, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken held a phone call with Venezuelan opposition candidate Edmundo González Urrutia and opposition leader María Corina Machado, expressing his concerns about their safety.
During the conversation, Blinken congratulated González Urrutia for receiving the majority of votes in the July 28 elections and voiced his worries about the wellbeing of the opposition leaders, according to EFE. In a statement, Blinken acknowledged González Urrutia as the election winner, citing "overwhelming evidence" presented by the opposition.
Political Tensions and Violence in Venezuela
This statement comes amid escalating political tension in Venezuela, where the National Electoral Council (CNE) confirmed Nicolás Maduro as president with 51.95% of the votes, compared to González Urrutia's 43.18%, with 96.87% of the ballots counted.
On the same day as Blinken's call, Machado's party, Vente Venezuela, reported an attack on their headquarters in Caracas. Six armed men stormed the premises, overpowering guards and taking equipment and documents.
In an op-ed published in The Wall Street Journal, Machado expressed fear for her life, stating she could be captured at any moment.
The Venezuelan opposition has published 81% of the electoral records online, claiming González Urrutia won the presidency by a significant margin. This allegation of electoral fraud has sparked numerous protests across the country, resulting in at least 12 deaths, including a military officer, and over 1,200 arrests.
Maduro's government has labeled the protests as an attempted coup, calling on police and military forces to tighten control.
The situation in Venezuela remains critical, with the opposition and government locked in a direct struggle for control of the country. Blinken's statements highlight the international community's concern over Venezuela's stability and security, particularly regarding opposition leaders facing increasing repression.
Frequently Asked Questions on Venezuelan Political Crisis
In light of the recent developments in Venezuela, here are some frequently asked questions and their answers to provide more clarity on the situation.
Why did Antony Blinken call Venezuelan opposition leaders?
Antony Blinken called Venezuelan opposition leaders to express his concerns about their safety and to congratulate Edmundo González Urrutia on receiving the majority of votes in the recent elections.
What was the outcome of the Venezuelan elections?
The National Electoral Council (CNE) confirmed Nicolás Maduro as president with 51.95% of the votes, while Edmundo González Urrutia received 43.18%, with 96.87% of the ballots counted.
What happened at the Vente Venezuela headquarters?
The Vente Venezuela headquarters in Caracas were attacked by six armed men who overpowered guards and took equipment and documents.
How has the opposition responded to the election results?
The opposition has published 81% of the electoral records online, claiming that González Urrutia won the presidency by a significant margin, and has alleged electoral fraud, which has led to widespread protests.