MIAMI – Edmundo González, a retired diplomat and political newcomer recognized by several countries, including the United States, as the winner of Venezuela’s most recent presidential elections, released a video statement on Friday condemning the practices of Nicolás Maduro. swearing in as president.
In the video posted on social media, González accused Maduro of carrying out a ‘coup’ by consolidating power.
González declared his readiness to return to Venezuela “at the right time” and called on the Venezuelan military to “reject unlawful orders from the Maduro regime.”
“I continue to work to create the conditions for my return to Venezuela and to assume the presidency of the republic,” González said. “I represent the will of nearly eight million Venezuelans and have a duty to defend that mandate.”
González strongly condemned Maduro’s decision to order the closure of the country’s airspace, which he said was intended to prevent his return.
“They tried to do to me in the air what they did to our leader yesterday,” González said, referring to the opposition leader’s arrest. Maria Corina Machado during a rally on Thursday. “This reflects their cowardice and lack of scruples.”
González urged military leaders to disobey what he described as unlawful orders and guarantee the safety of his return. He also emphasized the army’s loyalty to the Venezuelan people.
“The soldiers of our national armed forces are part of the same people they serve and must obey through me, as I am the elected President of the Republic of Venezuela,” he said.
González also appealed to Venezuelans to remain steadfast in their fight for democracy.
“I promise we will not fail. “Soon, very soon, whatever they do, we will invade Venezuela and put an end to this tragedy,” he vowed.
He concluded with a message of unity: “Our liberator taught us the spirit of sacrifice for freedom. Freedom always defeats tyranny. Glory to the brave people!’
Earlier on Friday, the The US increased its reward for the capture of Maduro up to 25 million dollars.
