Source: European Parliament
On 28 July 2024, millions of Venezuelans voted for democratic change by supporting Edmundo González Urrutia by a significant majority, according to publicly available copies of electoral records (‘actas’).
On several occasions, the EU has recalled its support to the Venezuelan people and to the upholding of democratic values[1]. In choosing to disregard the will of the people and, instead, reinforcing repression against the population — including members of the democratic opposition and their families — Nicolás Maduro confirmed that he lacks the legitimacy of a democratically elected president.
In view of the situation in the country, on 9 January 2025 the Council decided to adopt a new package of targeted sanctions against 15 individuals responsible for undermining democracy, the rule of law or human rights in Venezuela[2]. Decisions and regulations on sanctions are adopted by the Council of the EU by unanimity.
These measures are targeted and flexible and can be scaled or reversed depending on progress made towards the restoration of democracy, the rule of law and respect for human rights in Venezuela.
- [1] https://www.consilium.europa.eu/en/press/press-releases/2025/01/10/venezuela-statement-by-the-high-representative-on-behalf-of-the-eu-on-the-events-of-10-january-2025/
- [2] https://www.consilium.europa.eu/en/press/press-releases/2025/01/10/venezuela-council-renews-restrictive-measures-and-lists-a-further-15-individuals-in-view-of-the-situation-in-the-country/