Edmundo González Urrutia remains a prominent advocate for peace and democratic change in Venezuela. His message of democratic restoration has inspired the hopes and aspirations of the Venezuelan people, resulting in a significant call for change during the July 28 presidential election. His departure from Venezuela is attributed to the anti-democratic measures enforced by Nicolás Maduro against González Urrutia and other opposition leaders since the election.

On July 28, Venezuelans overwhelmingly expressed their desire for democratic change. The election results reflect this sentiment, which cannot be disregarded by Maduro and the Venezuelan electoral authorities. Supporters stand with González Urrutia in his ongoing call to continue the struggle for liberty and democracy in Venezuela.

The United States has condemned Maduro’s decision to use repression and intimidation to maintain power rather than acknowledge his defeat at the polls. Over the past six weeks, nearly two thousand Venezuelans have been unjustly arrested, censorship and threats have been employed to silence opposition, and Venezuelan laws have been violated to keep Maduro in power against the will of the people.

The United States urges Maduro to cease repression and immediately release all those unjustly detained. The U.S. government will continue collaborating with international partners to defend democratic freedoms in Venezuela and ensure accountability for Maduro's actions.