Venezuela is at a critical juncture as political tensions intensify with the imminent inauguration of President Nicolás Maduro for his third term. Diosdado Cabello, Venezuela's Minister of Internal Affairs, Justice and Peace, announced the arrest of over 100 individuals from various countries, including the United States, allegedly linked to "acts of destabilization." In the backdrop, opposition leader Edmundo González Urrutia continues his bid to challenge Maduro's authority, gathering international support while evading an arrest warrant issued against him.
The arrests, described by Cabello as necessary to prevent "acts of destabilization," involve individuals from a diverse set of nations such as Colombia, Peru, Spain, and even non-Latin American countries like Ukraine and Switzerland. This move highlights the government's efforts to tighten security measures amid increasing unrest. Meanwhile, González Urrutia has been on an international tour across the Americas, seeking backing from global allies against Maduro's regime. This tour included a significant meeting with U.S. President Joe Biden in Washington and discussions with the team of President-elect Donald Trump.
"Both leaders agreed there is nothing more essential to the success of democracy than respecting the will of the people, as expressed through a transparent and accountable electoral process, and that Gonzalez Urrutia’s campaign victory should be honored through a peaceful transfer back to democratic rule," – The White House
Despite these diplomatic engagements, Venezuelan authorities have accused González Urrutia of terrorism, conspiracy, and other crimes connected to the election, charges which he vehemently denies. Instead, González Urrutia calls for the Venezuelan military to recognize him as their legitimate commander-in-chief and assist in ending Maduro's leadership. However, Defense Minister Vladimir Padrino López has firmly rejected these assertions, maintaining that the Bolivarian National Armed Forces of Venezuela (FANB) will continue to recognize Maduro as their president.
"Mr. González Urrutia does not understand that the FANB is a pristine institution, which owes itself to the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela and does not obey the designs or mandates of other imperial powers," – Vladimir Padrino López
González Urrutia's call for military support comes as part of his broader strategy to galvanize support both domestically and internationally. He has urged his supporters to take to the streets on January 9, just one day before Maduro is set to be sworn in again for his next term. This appeal is echoed by María Corina Machado, a prominent opposition figure, who has called for worldwide demonstrations on the same day.
"Everyone in the streets of our beloved country!" – Edmundo González Urrutia
"This January 9th, EVERYONE in the streets, in Venezuela and around the world," – María Corina Machado
Amidst these unfolding events, Nicolás Maduro's government has decided to sever diplomatic ties with Paraguay following President Santiago Peña's reiteration of support for González Urrutia. Such diplomatic maneuvers underscore the increasing isolation faced by Maduro's administration on the international stage.
The United States has openly recognized González Urrutia as the rightful president-elect, casting further doubt on the legitimacy of Maduro's election victory. This recognition adds an extra layer of complexity to Venezuela's already volatile political environment. Venezuelan authorities have responded by offering a $100,000 reward for information leading to González Urrutia’s capture, showcasing their determination to quell opposition movements.
In response to these developments, González Urrutia remains defiant. He continues to rally support, emphasizing the role of Venezuela's military in safeguarding national sovereignty and honoring the popular will.
"Our National Armed Forces is called to be a guarantor of sovereignty and respect for the popular will. It is our duty to act with honor, merit and conscience," – Edmundo González Urrutia
