Maduro Calls for “Iron Fist” as Protests Erupt in Venezuela
Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro has urged the state to use an “iron fist” amidst widespread protests following controversial elections on July 28. The opposition has called for demonstrations in over 100 cities worldwide, challenging Maduro’s victory amid allegations of fraud.
Maduro demanded swift action against crime, violence, and hate crimes, emphasizing the need for justice to uphold constitutional principles. Opposition leaders, Maria Corina Machado and Edmundo Gonzalez, have urged Venezuelans to rally on August 17 to demand recognition of Gonzalez’s election win.
The National Electoral Council has yet to release detailed vote counts, fueling doubts about the election’s transparency. The unrest has led to 25 deaths, 192 injuries, and over 2,000 arrests, with Maduro accusing the opposition of inciting a coup and civil war.
The international community, including the United Nations and the International Criminal Court, has raised concerns about the violence and urged for a peaceful resolution to the crisis.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story.