Petro finally breaks silence on Venezuela: “serious doubts”

In his message, President Petro called on Venezuelan authorities to allow a “transparent” scrutiny of the electoral process, including an open vote count and supervision by political actors and international observers. He also urged the Venezuelan government to ensure that the elections end “in peace,” highlighting the importance of avoiding further violence amid the current protests that have left at least 12 dead and 749 detained.

Petro also addressed a direct message to Nicolás Maduro, reminding him of the legacy of the late Hugo Chávez and the responsibility he has in restoring calm and allowing a transparent electoral process. In an attempt to mitigate tensions, Petro proposed that a “Unilateral Declaration of State” be considered before the United Nations Security Council to establish an agreement between the government and the opposition that guarantees mutual respect and an end to violence.

On the other hand, the Colombian president asked the United States to reconsider its economic sanctions against Venezuela, arguing that these measures have exacerbated hunger and violence in the country and encouraged a mass exodus of Venezuelan citizens. According to Petro, lifting the sanctions could significantly reduce emigration from Latin America to the United States.

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The president concluded his message by stressing that “the vote count is the end of every electoral process” and reiterated his call for peace and democracy in Venezuela. His words come at a time of high tension, with the international community closely watching the outcome of the political crisis in the neighboring country.