Uruguay’s new government under President Yamandú Orsi has decided not to recognize either Nicolás Maduro or Edmundo González Urrutia as legitimate leaders of Venezuela following disputed elections. Foreign Minister Mario Lubetkin highlighted diplomatic challenges, including the welfare of Uruguayan citizens in Venezuela. Former officials criticized the current government for its position, marking a significant diplomatic stance.
Under the leadership of President Yamandú Orsi from the Broad Front (Frente Amplio – FA), Uruguay has resolved to no longer recognize Venezuelan opposition leader Edmundo González Urrutia as the victor of the disputed elections held on July 28, which resulted in Nicolás Maduro’s controversial win amid significant allegations of fraud. Foreign Minister Mario Lubetkin emphasized that Uruguay does not acknowledge either Maduro or Urrutia as legitimate leaders of Venezuela.
Lubetkin stated, “We do not recognize either Maduro or the president who claimed to have triumphed according to the minutes he showed on the Internet.” He further referenced the potential for diplomatic agreements, suggesting that similar arrangements that facilitated peace in other regions, such as the Oslo accords of 1993, might be applicable to the Venezuelan situation.
The previous government under President Luis Lacalle Pou formally recognized González Urrutia as the president-elect, which led to a visit to Montevideo on January 4. Lubetkin admitted that there are significant diplomatic complications, noting that relations between Uruguay and Venezuela are virtually nonexistent, and Uruguayan embassies in Venezuela are nearly closed. The safety and rights of the thousands of Uruguayans residing in Venezuela remain a pressing concern.
Lubetkin characterized the political landscape in Venezuela as “ambiguous,” recognizing the government’s firm control over the state and economy, yet asserting this control does not equate to recognition of legitimacy. When asked about Maduro’s governance, Lubetkin indicated that the current administration acknowledges the existence of dictatorship in Venezuela, as President Orsi had labeled Maduro as such during his campaign.
Former Defense Minister and current Senator Javier García criticized Orsi’s position, noting that only two days post-inauguration, he appeared to legitimize Maduro’s regime despite previous condemnation of it. Many opposition figures have voiced their discontent with this apparent shift in stance.
In summary, Uruguay under President Yamandú Orsi has taken a firm position against recognizing both Nicolás Maduro and Edmundo González Urrutia, emphasizing the need for clarity and responsibility in diplomatic relations with Venezuela. While acknowledging the complex and ambiguous political state, the administration remains committed to addressing the safety of Uruguayan citizens in Venezuela, even as recognition of the current leaders remains off the table.
Original Source: en.mercopress.com
