On Monday, President Joe Biden welcomed Venezuelan opposition leader Edmundo González to the White House. González is currently on a tour across Latin American countries and the United States, prior to his planned return to Venezuela on January 10 to assume the presidency.
Following the meeting, González shared on social media platform X, "I had an extensive discussion with President Biden. His commitment to a peaceful and orderly transition in Venezuela remains steadfast." He further noted, "We had 45 minutes to delve into the positive impact the expansion of democracy from Venezuela could have on the region."
María Corina Machado, another prominent opposition leader, emphasized that the meeting signifies recognition of the popular sovereignty demonstrated by millions of Venezuelan voters on July 28, 2024. She expressed gratitude to the U.S. President for hosting González in the Oval Office, highlighting it as a "strong testament of support for Venezuelans as we navigate critical times for democracy in our nation and the Americas."
Support from the Organization of American States
González's visit to Washington included talks with Luis Almagro, Secretary General of the Organization of American States (OAS). Almagro reiterated their "commitment to defending democracy and ensuring the full observance of human rights in Venezuela." He declared, "Respect for the sovereign will of the Venezuelan people is an ethical and political imperative that we shall continue to champion."
The OAS Secretary General underscored the importance of the Carter Center's electoral observation mission report, which declared González the winner of the presidential elections, presenting vote tallies as evidence to the Permanent Council—claims that have yet to be contested.
Currently exiled in Spain, González is seeking international support for his cause. Before meeting with Biden, he visited Argentina, where President Javier Milei hosted him at the Casa Rosada. There, they greeted a crowd of Venezuelans showing support for González. A similar scene occurred in Montevideo with Uruguayan President Luis Lacalle Pou.
Tensions in Venezuela
Back in Venezuela, the political climate is fraught with tension. The government-controlled Parliament has called for González's arrest should he return, accusing him of usurpation, treason, and money laundering. Despite these threats, González remains determined to return and assume office on January 10.
María Corina Machado has urged Venezuelans to rally on January 9, one day before González's planned inauguration, to support him and protest against Nicolás Maduro's government. Machado sees this mobilization as vital for restoring democracy in Venezuela.
Key Questions About Edmundo González's Political Journey
What was the purpose of Edmundo González's meeting with Joe Biden?
The meeting aimed to discuss the commitment to a peaceful transition in Venezuela and the potential positive impact of expanding democracy in the region.
How has the Organization of American States supported González?
The OAS has reaffirmed its dedication to defending democracy and human rights in Venezuela, highlighting the importance of the Carter Center's report that declared González the election winner.
What are the threats González faces upon returning to Venezuela?
González is threatened with arrest by the Venezuelan government, accused of usurpation, treason, and money laundering if he returns.