The Uruguayan government under President Yamandú Orsi has chosen not to recognize Edmundo González Urrutia as Venezuela’s President-elect, following claims of fraud surrounding the July elections that saw Nicolás Maduro declare victory. Foreign Minister Mario Lubetkin confirmed Uruguay’s non-recognition of both leaders while acknowledging diplomatic difficulties concerning Uruguayan nationals in Venezuela. He pointed out the lack of guarantees from the recent electoral process, emphasizing President Orsi’s characterization of Maduro as a dictator and the complexities arising from this stance.
The newly established government in Uruguay, led by President Yamandú Orsi from the Broad Front (Frente Amplio – FA), has declared that it does not recognize Edmundo González Urrutia as President-elect of Venezuela. This decision follows the controversial elections on July 28, which saw Nicolás Maduro declared the winner amidst claims of electoral fraud. Foreign Minister Mario Lubetkin emphasized that Uruguay does not acknowledge either Maduro or González Urrutia’s electoral victory.
Lubetkin articulated, “We do not recognize either Maduro or the president who claimed to have triumphed according to the minutes he showed on the Internet.” He referenced the Oslo peace agreements to question the legitimacy of Venezuela’s political situation, suggesting that similar agreements could be sought in addressing Venezuela’s issues.
In contrast, the previous government under Luis Lacalle Pou had recognized González Urrutia as president-elect following his visit to Uruguay. Lubetkin acknowledged the straitened diplomatic relations between Uruguay and Venezuela, stating that although they do not accept the election results, they face challenges concerning the safety of Uruguayan citizens residing in Venezuela.
He described Venezuela’s political landscape as “ambiguous,” recognizing the tight control of the state and economy, but maintained that such observation did not equate to formal recognition. Lubetkin reinforced the administration’s stance regarding the electoral process’s lack of democratic legitimacy, indicating that President Orsi had characterized Maduro as a dictator during his campaign.
Former Defense Minister and current Senator Javier García noted the inconsistency of Orsi’s position, where he labeled Maduro a dictator, yet legitimized the Bolivarian regime shortly after taking office. This decision has drawn criticism from various opposition leaders, highlighting the complexities of Uruguay’s diplomatic stance.
Uruguay’s new leadership rejects the recognition of both Nicolás Maduro and Edmundo González Urrutia following disputed elections in Venezuela. Despite diplomatic challenges regarding Uruguayan citizens in Venezuela, the administration maintains its stance against the legitimacy of the Venezuelan electoral process. Former Minister Javier García highlighted the contradictory nature of Orsi’s approach towards Maduro’s regime, reflecting ongoing tensions within Uruguay’s foreign policy.
Original Source: en.mercopress.com
