Political crisis in Venezuela: international rejection of Maduro's re-election.

The political situation in Venezuela has become a hotbed of debate and controversy at the international level, especially following the recent elections that resulted in the reelection of Nicolás Maduro. However, the legitimacy of these results has been called into question by a growing number of countries that have chosen not to recognize his victory. In total, 12 nations have explicitly rejected Maduro's reelection, considering it fraudulent. This phenomenon not only reveals a fracture in international support for the Venezuelan regime but also highlights the complexity of political dynamics in Latin America. Governments from 36 countries have demanded transparency in the electoral process, calling for documented evidence of the ballot counting to be published. In contrast, Maduro's traditional allies, such as Russia, China, Cuba, and Nicaragua, have celebrated his victory, defending the validity of the elections despite a lack of evidence to support such claims. This discordance in the perceptions of the electoral outcome reflects a polarization that extends beyond Venezuelan borders, affecting diplomatic relations throughout the region. One of the most notable cases is that of Edmundo González, who, according to the National Electoral Council (CNE), received 44.2% of the votes compared to Maduro. However, the Democratic Unity Roundtable (MUD), led by María Corina Machado, claims that González actually garnered 67%. This discrepancy of 37 points underscores the distrust surrounding the electoral process and the discontent of opposition sectors that accuse the government of manipulation and fraud. Peru has been one of the first countries to express its rejection, cutting diplomatic ties with Venezuela and expelling officials from the Chavista regime. Such measures are seen as acts of courage, especially considering the high levels of Venezuelan migration that have impacted the Andean country. Peru's decision adds to a series of reproaches from various Latin American governments and the United States, although its effect on multilateral organizations like the Organization of American States (OAS) has been limited. The OAS, in a recent vote, decided not to demand the publication of the CNE's electoral records, despite pressure from certain countries. Colombia and Brazil, while publicly expressing concern, abstained from joining the formal request. This lack of consensus highlights the limitations that the OAS faces in influencing Maduro's dictatorship and illustrates the absence of a unified strategy in the region regarding the Venezuelan crisis. Experts in international relations, such as Farid Kahhat and Diana Luna, have emphasized the lack of cohesion in Latin America to address the Venezuelan issue. Kahhat notes that, despite the need for a firm stance, many countries are reluctant to make decisions that could affect their diplomatic or commercial relations with the regime. In the past, the Lima Group, which sought a coordinated response to the crisis, has weakened and dispersed, further limiting effective actions against Maduro. For her part, Luna emphasizes that the time to demand transparency has passed, as delays in publishing records could give the regime leeway to manipulate results. The internal context of each country significantly influences its stance towards Venezuela, and the mass migration of Venezuelans to countries like Peru has created additional pressure for strong measures to be taken. As the international community watches, the situation in Venezuela continues to deteriorate. In response to protests against his government, Maduro has intensified repression, carrying out illegal detentions and perpetrating human rights violations, further exacerbating the humanitarian crisis facing the country. International reactions, although increasing, seem insufficient to change the dynamics of the regime. The political future of Venezuela is uncertain, and the role of the international community becomes crucial in seeking a way out of this crisis. Sanctions and statements of rejection are just some of the tools available to countries, but their effectiveness remains a topic of debate. Without a coordinated and firm strategy, the risk of the situation remaining stagnant or even worsening is palpable. The Venezuelan crisis not only affects its citizens but also poses significant challenges to the stability of the region. The lack of a solid bloc in Latin America that defends democracy and human rights is a challenge that must be faced with determination. As Maduro's regime clings to power, the international community must rethink its strategies and seek new ways to support the Venezuelan people in their struggle for freedom and democracy.