In a bold move, the United States has endorsed Edmundo González as the legitimate winner of Venezuela’s July 28, 2024, presidential election, rejecting Nicolas Maduro’s claimed victory.
The US Secretary of State, Anthony Blinken, threw his weight behind González, citing a “deeply flawed” and “lacking credibility” declaration by the National Electoral Council (CNE).
Blinken’s statement, released on Thursday, highlighted opposition-published tally sheets from over 80% of polling stations, indicating González won by an “insurmountable margin.” This was corroborated by independent observers and exit polls. The US praised the 12 million Venezuelans who voted despite challenges and dismissed Maduro’s allegations against opposition leaders.
The US also called for the release of those arrested for protesting against Maduro, as anti-Maduro protests sweep across the country. This move by the US is seen as a significant development in the ongoing political tensions in Venezuela, with the international community closely watching the situation unfold.
