[Activists opposed to the Venezuelan opposition takeover of diplomatic buildings belonging to the elected Venezuelan government organized a 24/7 vigil to protect the Venezuelan Embassy in DC. April 16, 2019]

CODEPINK condemns the United States' continued interference in Venezuela’s democratic processes, following the recent presidential election where Nicolás Maduro was declared the winner by the National Electoral Council (CNE). This election, certified by international observers as fair and transparent, represents the will of the Venezuelan people.

On Monday, President Maduro received his credentials for a third six-year term, reaffirming his commitment to peace, prosperity, and national unity through dialogue. Despite a climate of respect and democratic participation during the vote, the US-backed opposition has disputed the results without providing substantial evidence, and US officials have echoed these baseless allegations.

The comments from US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and other officials only serve to incite violence and instability. These actions undermine the democratic process and disrespect the sovereign will of the Venezuelan people. We are particularly concerned about the reported disturbances, protests, and incidents of violence instigated by these irresponsible remarks.

For years, US lawmakers from both parties have made it plainly clear that they are intent on pursuing regime change in Venezuela. Whether through sanctions, military coups, or misinformation, US officials have repeatedly demonstrated they would rather resort to violence and coercion than allow free and fair elections in Venezuela. After Sunday’s election, some members of Congress are pressuring the Biden administration to repeat the failed strategy of recognizing an alternative president, as was disastrously attempted with Juan Guaidó. This approach only further destabilizes the region and disregards the legitimate electoral process that has taken place.

Over nine hundred observers from more than 95 countries were present in voting centers across the country to certify the election’s integrity. The National Lawyers Guild praised the electoral process for its fairness and transparency. The Carter Center has called for detailed information from polling stations to be released, and it is expected that the CNE will release that data soon as they’ve done in the past.

CODEPINK calls for an end to US interventionist policies and urges all parties to respect Venezuela’s sovereignty. It is vital to support peaceful dialogue and constructive engagement over discord and division. We stand in solidarity with the Venezuelan people and their right to determine their own future without external interference.

CODEPINK urges the US government to respect Venezuela’s sovereignty.