Global Geo-political Series: U.S. refuses to recognize Maduro’s regional election victory in Venezuela

Despite triple-digit inflation, widespread starvation, international sanctions against the oil industry, and economic depression, the ruling government led by Nicolas Maduro surprised everyone, especially international watchers as it secured victory in local elections where it won 17 out of 23 governorship. However, Venezuela’s opposition party refused to recognize the result and called for a complete audit of all 23 governor races. Though Maduro government lost three Governorship it previously held, the opposition was expecting a more decisive victory.

The U.S. government led by President Donald Trump, who previously criticized the Maduro government and the state of the democracy in Venezuela and threatened to take military action if needed has refused to recognize Maduro’s victory. U.S. State department’s spokesperson Heather Nauert issued the following statement in response to Monday’s election,

“The United States applauds the courage, determination, and will of the Venezuelan people who tried to exercise their constitutional right to vote in the October 15, gubernatorial elections.

We condemn the lack of free and fair elections yesterday in Venezuela. The voice of the Venezuelan people was not heard. Our previously stated concerns were unfortunately realized: lack of independent, credible international observers; lack of technical audit for the National Electoral Council’s (CNE) tabulation; last minute changes to polling station locations without public notice; manipulation of ballot layouts; and limited availability of voting machines in opposition neighborhoods.

As long as the Maduro regime conducts itself as an authoritarian dictatorship, we will work with members of the international community and bring the full weight of American economic and diplomatic power to bear in support of the Venezuelan people as they seek to restore their democracy. We continue to call on the regime to provide for the humanitarian needs of its people, respect the constitution and National Assembly, allow a true democratic process, and release all political prisoners.”

Trump has said that the U.S. government has an array of options when it comes to Venezuela, including a military one.