Swearing-In as Venezuela's President: US Support Needed
Seeking US Support for Venezuela’s Presidency
In the eyes of President Joe Biden and much of the world, Edmundo González Urrutia is the rightful next president of Venezuela. Yet he’s in Washington this week seeking America’s help in making that a reality.
Venezuela holds its inauguration on Friday, and strongman ruler Nicolás Maduro is planning to be sworn in. González intends to take the oath of office — if he can reach Venezuela’s shores, avoid the bounty on his head, and convince Maduro to step aside.
González’s Optimism and Strategy
In an interview with POLITICO, the 75-year-old González was upbeat about his prospects. He emphasized a peaceful transfer of power in Venezuela without outside military intervention.
González’s message to Biden included gratitude and a request for more support for the Venezuelan people, possibly through sanctions and legal targeting of Maduro and his aides.
US Backing and Challenges Ahead
Despite US backing, González and Venezuela’s opposition face significant obstacles, notably the support of Venezuela’s armed forces for Maduro. Previous efforts to push Maduro from power have failed, and González is working to influence the incoming US president’s stance.
Venezuela’s chaos has wide-ranging implications for US national security, given its ties to China and Russia, migration crisis impact, and economic destabilization.
Future Prospects and Transition Hopes
González’s determination to return to Venezuela for the inauguration reflects a deep commitment to his country’s future. Despite challenges, he believes a transition away from Maduro’s regime is inevitable, emphasizing peaceful change.
As González continues his diplomatic efforts, the world watches to see if Venezuela’s people can indeed oust the strongman and pave the way for a new era of governance.
