On Thursday, Canada officially acknowledged Edmundo González Urrutia as the legitimate victor of Venezuela's presidential elections held on July 28. Mélanie Joly, Canada's Minister of Foreign Affairs, announced this recognition through a post on social media platform X, emphasizing her support for the opposition leader just a day before Nicolás Maduro's planned inauguration, despite opposition claims supported by election records.
Joly disclosed that she had a conversation on Wednesday with opposition leader María Corina Machado, where they discussed Venezuela's political climate. During their discussion, the Canadian minister reaffirmed her country's dedication to supporting those fighting to ensure the Venezuelan people's will is honored. "Canada recognizes that Edmundo González Urrutia won the July 28 elections and is the elected president of Venezuela," Joly declared in her post.
The announcement comes amid escalating political tensions, with thousands of citizens taking to the streets demanding respect for the popular vote, while Nicolás Maduro insists on commencing a new term as Venezuela's president. Canada's statement regarding González Urrutia's victory coincides with a period where the North American nation has ramped up its opposition to Nicolás Maduro's regime.
On December 17, Canada imposed sanctions on several Venezuelan officials, including Caryslia Rodríguez Rodríguez, the president of Venezuela's Supreme Court of Justice, due to her alleged actions against the opposition and democracy in the nation.
In recent weeks, the United States, several Latin American countries, and the European Union have also recognized González as Venezuela's elected president.
Key Aspects of Canada's Recognition of Venezuela's Election Outcome
Why did Canada recognize Edmundo González as Venezuela's elected president?
Canada recognized Edmundo González as the elected president due to the belief that he legitimately won the July 28 elections, based on opposition claims and election records presented.
What actions has Canada taken against Nicolás Maduro's government?
Canada has imposed sanctions on various Venezuelan officials, including the president of the Supreme Court of Justice, due to their alleged actions against opposition and democratic processes.
How have other countries responded to Edmundo González's election victory?
The United States, several Latin American nations, and the European Union have also acknowledged Edmundo González as the elected president of Venezuela.