U.S. Questions Legitimacy of Venezuelan Election, Eyes Possible Sanctions

The U.S. government has discredited Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro's re-election, citing alleged electoral manipulation. Senior officials have called for a detailed vote count and suggested potential sanctions. This comes after accusations of Maduro's failure to uphold past electoral commitments, raising concerns over the election's legitimacy.

The Biden administration, on Monday, denounced Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro's re-election as lacking 'any credibility' due to alleged electoral manipulation, leaving the possibility of new sanctions open.

Senior U.S. officials emphasized concerns over the disputed vote after Venezuela's electoral authority announced Maduro's third-term victory, countered by independent exit polls favoring opposition candidate Edmundo Gonzalez.

The officials demanded a detailed vote tabulation, warning that its absence would hinder international acceptance. Although no new punitive measures were introduced, Washington is reevaluating its sanctions policy towards Venezuela based on Maduro's future actions.

(With inputs from agencies.)