Recognition of Edmundo González as President-elect of Venezuela

Peru recognizes Edmundo González as the president-elect of Venezuela after a sham election claimed by Nicolás Maduro. The situation mirrors events from 2019 when Juan Guaidó was proclaimed president. Venezuela is currently in a political crisis with protests against the Maduro regime.

Human Rights Violations in Venezuela under the Maduro Regime

The United Nations Independent International Fact-Finding Mission on the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela warned about increased violent repression by the Maduro regime ahead of the upcoming July 28 sham presidential election. The regime is accused of committing crimes to intimidate dissidents and restrict fundamental rights. The report highlighted the regime's crackdown on opposition figures and its disregard for international agreements.

Incentives to Venezuela's Regime and the Sham Presidential Election

Assistant Secretary of State Brian Nichols stated that the incentives offered by the Biden administration to Venezuela's regime were not enough to convince dictator Nicolás Maduro to hold a free and fair election. The regime announced a sham presidential election on July 28, banning opposition leader María Corina Machado from running. The United States supports a democratic process in Venezuela despite evidence of abuses by Maduro.