EU Rejects Legitimacy of Maduro's Election

The European Union has officially declared it will not recognize Nicolás Maduro's legitimacy as president of Venezuela following the disputed July 28 election, citing a lack of verifiable voting data. EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell emphasized that Maduro, while remaining president de facto, has no democratic legitimacy due to the absence of credible election results. The EU's stance reflects a consensus among member states, although they did not reach an agreement to recognize the opposition's claimed victory. Spain has proposed potential sanctions against Maduro's regime, but no consensus on this measure was achieved during the discussions. The situation in Venezuela remains tense, with reported violence against opposition leaders and a deteriorating political climate. This decision by the EU represents a significant diplomatic move affecting its relations with Venezuela and highlights ongoing concerns about human rights and democracy in the country.