Venezuela’s Defense Minister Vladimir Padrino reiterated the military’s unwavering support for President Nicolas Maduro amidst the ongoing controversy surrounding the disputed presidential election results.
In response to calls from opposition figures Edmundo Gonzalez and Maria Corina Machado for the armed forces to align with the people, Padrino emphasized their allegiance to Maduro during a televised address alongside other military and police officials.
Padrino dismissed the opposition’s efforts to undermine unity and institutionality, stating that their loyalty to Maduro remains steadfast.
The opposition maintains that Gonzalez received over 6 million votes in the election, providing evidence from voting machines, while the government has not published its own ballot copies yet.
Amid allegations of fraud, the U.S State Department found it improbable for the opposition to manipulate vote tallies, but refrained from commenting on potential sanctions or talks between the Venezuelan government and opposition.
As tensions escalate, Venezuelan Foreign Minister Yvan Gil accused the far right of attempting to disrupt democracy and impose a U.S-backed regime.
Despite facing a criminal probe for inciting law enforcement, Machado remains resolute in challenging Maduro’s claim of victory and calls for his resignation.
The disputed election outcome has sparked protests and demands for a democratic resolution in Venezuela.
© Thomson Reuters 2024.
[ad_2]
Source link
