Maduro firmly rejects negotiating with opposition on vote

Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro has refused to negotiate with opposition leader Maria Corina Machado after she offered guarantees for a transition of power following the disputed re-election. The political crisis in Venezuela began after the National Electoral Council declared Maduro the winner of the July poll, a decision contested by the opposition.

Machado, who is in hiding due to safety concerns, called for international support and claimed the election results were forged. Despite calls for negotiation, Maduro maintained his position, saying Machado should answer for her actions in contesting the election. The situation has led to protests, resulting in numerous deaths and arrests.

The Supreme Court, which many believe is aligned with Maduro, summoned presidential candidates, but the opposition’s candidate, Edmundo Gonzalez Urrutia, refused to attend. Amid ongoing tensions, Maduro expressed willingness to engage in dialogue with the country’s political parties and neighboring governments.

The uncertainty and unrest in Venezuela continue as the country grapples with political turmoil and economic collapse under Maduro’s leadership.