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Venezuela Opposition Calls for 'Democratic Transition' Led by Gonzalez Urrutia

Published January 4, 2026, 14:15
Venezuela Opposition Calls for 'Democratic Transition' Led by Gonzalez Urrutia

The Venezuelan opposition, through the Democratic Unitary Platform (PUD), is calling for a 'democratic and orderly transition' of power, led by Edmundo Gonzalez Urrutia, following the arrest of President Nicolas Maduro. The PUD argues that Gonzalez Urrutia, who was a presidential candidate in 2024, was elected by the majority of Venezuelans and should lead the process of national reconciliation and restoration of institutions. Maria Corina Machado, a leading figure in the opposition, initially sought to lead the transition, but ultimately supported Gonzalez Urrutia, focusing on the release of political prisoners. Machado's change of position appears to be due to a lack of support from US President Donald Trump.