In a surprising turn of events, Venezuelan opposition candidate Edmundo Gonzalez Urrutia has sought political asylum in Spain. The Venezuelan government announced on Saturday that Gonzalez Urrutia has departed the country after taking refuge in the Spanish embassy in Caracas.
Venezuelan Vice President Delcy Rodriguez stated on social media, “After taking refuge voluntarily at the Spanish embassy in Caracas a few days ago, Edmundo Gonzalez Urrutia asked the Spanish government for political asylum.” She added that the Venezuelan government had agreed to his safe passage and confirmed his departure.
Spanish Foreign Minister Jose Manuel Albares confirmed the news on X, saying, “Edmundo Gonzalez, at his own request, flies to Spain on a Spanish Air Force plane.”
As of now, neither Gonzalez Urrutia nor representatives from his party have commented on the situation. His sudden departure raises questions about the political climate in Venezuela and the challenges faced by opposition figures in the country.
The move has sparked international attention, with analysts pondering the implications for Venezuela’s upcoming elections and the broader political landscape in Latin America.
The asylum request underscores the ongoing tensions within Venezuela’s political sphere, where opposition candidates often face significant obstacles. Gonzalez Urrutia’s decision to seek refuge highlights concerns over political freedoms and human rights in the country.
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Venezuelan presidential opposition candidate seeks asylum in Spain
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