One year after Nicolás Maduro declared himself the winner of Venezuela’s presidential election, the United States has reiterated its support for the restoration of democracy in the country. The U.S. government does not recognize Maduro as the legitimate president and considers his administration illegitimate.
The U.S. statement asserts that Maduro leads the Cartel de Los Soles, a group designated as a narco-terrorist organization, and holds him responsible for drug trafficking activities affecting both the United States and Europe. It also notes that Maduro is currently under indictment in the United States, with accusations of using Venezuelan institutions to further criminal operations related to narcotics.
According to U.S. officials, “Maduro is not the President of Venezuela and his regime is not the legitimate government.”
The statement also accuses Maduro and his associates of manipulating Venezuela’s electoral system over several years to retain power. It highlights concerns about recent municipal elections being scheduled near the anniversary of what it calls a stolen presidential election on July 28, suggesting this timing is intended to enable military and police suppression.
“The United States will continue working with our partners to hold accountable the corrupt, criminal and illegitimate Maduro regime,” reads part of the official statement. “Those who steal elections and use force to grasp power undermine America’s national security interests.”
This stance follows ongoing efforts by U.S. authorities to coordinate with international partners regarding accountability measures against those involved in undermining democratic processes in Venezuela.