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The new U.S. Secretary of State, Marco Rubio, expressed his support on Wednesday for what he considers the legitimate president of Venezuela, Edmundo González, during a phone conversation.
In this call, Rubio also spoke with María Corina Machado, leader of the Venezuelan democratic opposition, according to a statement from the official's office at the State Department released this Thursday.
During the conversation, Rubio praised the bravery of the Venezuelan people, who "continue to confront the repression of Nicolás Maduro's regime."
He also reaffirmed the commitment of the U.S. to the restoration of democracy in Venezuela and expressed support for the immediate and unconditional release of all political prisoners detained during the post-election protests.
The Secretary also emphasized his country's support for the peaceful democratic aspirations of the Venezuelan people, and the need for Venezuela to regain democracy and freedom.
In this context, Rubio reiterated his support for González Urrutia as the legitimate president of Venezuela, in line with the recognition of the international community of his leadership.
After the call, González Urrutia and Machado expressed their gratitude to the Cuban-American for reaching out to them less than 24 hours after taking office, which "demonstrates the priority Venezuela has on its agenda and its commitment to our fight for freedom."
Machado stated that she conveyed to the official "the strength and determination of the Venezuelans to advance in achieving the freedom of our country and the return to democracy."
"The transition to democracy in Venezuela is crucial for regional stability and the security of our hemisphere. We know we can count on our strategic allies to achieve this," he emphasized.
The U.S. government has been a strong critic of the Maduro regime and has advocated for strengthening Venezuelan democratic actors in their struggle to restore democracy in the country.
Former President Joe Biden had recognized González Urrutia as the elected president and even welcomed him to the White House before January 10, the date he was supposed to take office.
Frequently asked questions about the political situation in Venezuela and Marco Rubio's support for Edmundo González
Why does Marco Rubio support Edmundo González as the legitimate president of Venezuela?
Marco Rubio, as the U.S. Secretary of State, supports Edmundo González because he considers him the legitimate president of Venezuela, backed by the international community and as part of the United States' efforts to restore democracy in Venezuela. This stance aligns with the recognition of González by several countries and international organizations, due to allegations of fraud in the elections where Nicolás Maduro was declared the winner.
How does international support influence the situation of Edmundo González?
International support is crucial for Edmundo González, as it legitimizes his position as the elected president and increases pressure on Nicolás Maduro's regime to accept a democratic transition. The backing of countries and organizations such as the U.S., the European Union, and other democratic governments strengthens the Venezuelan opposition's fight to restore democracy in the country.
What role does María Corina Machado play in the current context of Venezuela?
María Corina Machado is a key figure in the Venezuelan opposition who supports the legitimacy of Edmundo González as the elected president. She has been a vocal advocate for democratic transition and has urged the international community to support this cause. Her leadership and bravery have been crucial in the protests against Maduro's regime, despite the personal risks she faces.
What is the current situation of political prisoners in Venezuela, according to Marco Rubio?
Marco Rubio has expressed his support for the immediate and unconditional release of all political prisoners in Venezuela, which is part of the United States' commitment to restoring democracy in the country. The repression and imprisonment of opposition figures under the Maduro regime are condemned by Rubio and other international leaders who advocate for respect for human rights.
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