EU Questions Validity of Venezuela's Presidential Election

The EU will not recognize Venezuela's presidential election results until polling records are verified. EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell emphasized transparency and raised concerns over election flaws and irregularities. He also highlighted issues of media access, voter registry problems, and opposition intimidation.

The European Union is withholding recognition of Venezuela's recent presidential election until comprehensive verification of polling station records is conducted, foreign policy chief Josep Borrell declared on Monday.

The EU has urged the Venezuelan Electoral Council (CNE) to maintain maximum transparency during the results tabulation process. According to the national electoral authority, President Nicolas Maduro claimed a third term with 51% of the vote, despite independent exit polls indicating a significant opposition victory.

Borrell pointed to credible reports of numerous election flaws and irregularities, including obstacles for opposition candidates, voter registry deficiencies, and unbalanced media access. He also called for the removal of arbitrary detentions and intimidation of opposition and civil society members and appealed for calm and respect for human rights.

The CNE had earlier rescinded its invitation for the EU to observe the election, citing ongoing sanctions on the Venezuelan government.