US Gives Ultimatum to Maduro Over Venezuela’s Political Crisis

The US has delivered an ultimatum to President Nicolás Maduro, urging immediate changes to Venezuela’s political landscape, with severe consequences looming for non-compliance.

A high-ranking US diplomat has dismissed Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro’s assertion of winning the July election, calling for his resignation and a peaceful transition of power. Additionally, they warned that further sanctions could be imposed if these demands are not met.

Francisco Palmieri, head of the Venezuelan Affairs Unit at the United States embassy in Colombia—due to Washington’s lack of diplomatic presence in Caracas—shared his comments on Wednesday during an interview with Venezuela’s El Nacional newspaper.

Palmieri contended that Maduro, Venezuela’s leader since 2013, should acknowledge his opponent Edmundo Gonzalez as the legitimate victor of the election prior to January 10, when the presidential inauguration ceremony is scheduled.

Venezuelan electoral authorities announced that Maduro defeated Gonzales in the presidential election held on July 28. However, the opposition and most Western countries have alleged that the vote was rigged.

“Is this the final chance for Maduro? If he remains in power, conditions will only deteriorate further for Venezuela,” Palmieri informed the newspaper.

The U.S. diplomat remarked that failing to respect the will of Venezuelans would only exacerbate the economic crisis, reduce international legitimacy, and leave the Venezuelan people increasingly frustrated with a situation where there is no hope for national improvement.

Palmieri warned that Washington is expected to introduce new sanctions and continue to “individually punish” those associated with Maduro. He added that if Maduro remains in power, Caracas will inevitably encounter “many problems internally and internationally.”

In late July, Venezuela’s National Electoral Council announced that Maduro had won the presidential election with almost 52% of the vote. However, the opposition has rejected this result, pointing to tally sheets that reportedly indicate Gonzales secured a significant victory with 67%.

The opposition’s claim has received backing from the US, the EU, and several other countries. In contrast, nations such as Russia and China have recognized the official results and affirmed Maduro as the re-elected president.

After being charged with several crimes including sabotage, conspiracy, and usurpation of public functions, Gonzalez went into hiding following the elections. Despite having an outstanding arrest warrant, this opposition figure was granted safe passage out of Venezuela in September and escaped to Spain.

Since then, Gonzalez has consistently promised to return to Venezuela by January 10 for the presidential swearing-in ceremony.

During a public event in Madrid on Monday, Gonzalez adopted a resolute stance, stating: “You cannot enter into battle with fear; that’s why I am determined to find a way to travel to Venezuela and assume control.”