Uruguay Declines to Recognize Venezuela’s President-Elect Edmundo González Urrutia
Uruguay’s government, led by President Yamandú Orsi, does not recognize Edmundo González Urrutia as President-elect of Venezuela, nor does it recognize Nicolás Maduro amid fraud allegations from the July 28 elections. Foreign Minister Mario Lubetkin explained that while diplomatic relations are severely strained, the government must consider how to address the needs of Uruguayans in Venezuela. The situation underscores a complex diplomatic challenge.
Under the new presidency of Yamandú Orsi from the Broad Front (Frente Amplio – FA), Uruguay has chosen not to recognize Edmundo González Urrutia as the President-elect of Venezuela. This decision follows the controversial elections held on July 28, in which incumbent Nicolás Maduro was declared the winner amid widespread allegations of electoral fraud. Foreign Minister Mario Lubetkin reiterated that Uruguay does not acknowledge Maduro’s presidency, noting, “We do not recognize either Maduro or the president who claimed to have triumphed according to the minutes he showed on the Internet.”
Lubetkin emphasized the challenges facing Uruguay in this diplomatic situation, acknowledging that relations between Uruguay and Venezuela are extremely strained, with embassies nearly closed. He expressed concern for the many Uruguayans residing in Venezuela, stating, “What do we do with the thousands of Uruguayans who are in Venezuela?” He clarified that while the government does not recognize the election results, there is no intention to restore diplomatic relations at this time.
Despite the strict control over state management in Venezuela, Lubetkin maintained that this does not equate to recognition of Maduro’s government. He noted that Maduro’s government lacks the necessary democratic assurances for legitimacy. Former Defense Minister and current Senator Javier García pointed out that Orsi previously labeled Maduro as a dictator but appears to legitimize his regime shortly after taking office, which has drawn criticism from opposition leaders.
Uruguay, under the leadership of President Yamandú Orsi, has officially refused to recognize Edmundo González Urrutia as the President-elect of Venezuela and continues to dismiss Nicolás Maduro’s legitimacy. The Uruguayan government faces a diplomatic dilemma, especially concerning its citizens in Venezuela, while articulating a stance on the democratic deficiencies in the Venezuelan elections. The situation remains complicated, highlighting the challenges in international recognition and diplomatic relations.
Original Source: en.mercopress.com
