Uruguay’s Government Rejects Recognition of Maduro and González Urrutia

Uruguay’s government led by Yamandú Orsi does not recognize Nicolás Maduro or Edmundo González Urrutia following the controversial elections. Foreign Minister Mario Lubetkin highlighted diplomatic challenges while asserting that democracy was not upheld in Venezuela’s electoral process. The administration’s stance reflects broader regional sentiments and underscores concerns for Uruguayan nationals in Venezuela.

Under the presidency of Yamandú Orsi from the Broad Front (Frente Amplio – FA), Uruguay has chosen not to recognize Edmundo González Urrutia as the victor of the disputed July 28 elections, which saw Nicolás Maduro claim victory amidst allegations of electoral fraud. Foreign Minister Mario Lubetkin stated unequivocally that Uruguay does not acknowledge either Maduro or González Urrutia.

Lubetkin remarked, “We do not recognize either Maduro or the president who claimed to have triumphed according to the minutes he showed on the Internet.” He noted the historical Oslo peace agreements, questioning why similar agreements for Venezuela could not exist.

Uruguay’s previous Multicolor coalition government under Luis Lacalle Pou had recognized González Urrutia as president-elect, a stance that contrasts sharply with the current administration. Lubetkin also pointed out that while the recognition of the election results remains unchanged, bilateral relations between Uruguay and Venezuela have deteriorated significantly.

He stated, “What do we do with the thousands of Uruguayans who are in Venezuela? Who protects them?” Regarding the possibility of re-establishing diplomatic relations, he clarified that such an action is not currently contemplated.

Lubetkin characterized the situation in Venezuela as “ambiguous,” acknowledging the firm state control, yet maintaining it does not equate to official recognition. He emphasized that other nations share Uruguay’s stance on this matter.

On the topic of Nicolás Maduro’s leadership, Lubetkin indicated that President Orsi has labeled Maduro as a dictator due to the lack of democratic guarantees during the electoral process. He reiterated, “We do not recognize it, but we have to solve an objective problem we have, and we have to find the formulas.”

Furthermore, former Defense Minister and current Senator Javier García highlighted that Orsi previously referred to Maduro as a dictator during his campaign, expressing concern over the legitimacy of the current government’s actions shortly after Orsi’s inauguration. Many leaders from the opposition voiced criticism regarding this diplomatic approach.

In summary, Uruguay’s new government under President Yamandú Orsi has opted not to recognize either Nicolás Maduro or Edmundo González Urrutia following the disputed Venezuelan elections. Despite acknowledging the existence of Uruguayan citizens in Venezuela and the complexities of diplomatic relations, the administration maintains its position against legitimizing the Venezuelan leadership, emphasizing the need for objective solutions to the ongoing issues.

Original Source: en.mercopress.com