Venezuelan Opposition Leader González Seeks Asylum in Spain Amidst Political Turmoil

Former Venezuelan opposition presidential candidate Edmundo González has fled to Spain after receiving asylum, following his controversial claim as the legitimate winner of July's presidential election. His departure, facilitated by the Venezuelan government, marks a significant development in the country's ongoing political crisis.

Former Venezuelan opposition presidential candidate Edmundo González has fled into exile after being granted asylum in Spain, dealing a major blow to millions who supported his campaign to end two decades of single-party rule.

The announcement of González's departure, considered the legitimate winner of July's presidential race by the opposition and several global authorities, was made late Saturday by Venezuelan Vice President Delcy Rodríguez. She stated the government had decided to grant González safe passage just days after ordering his arrest to aid in restoring "the country's political peace and tranquillity." Neither González nor opposition leader Maria Corina Machado has commented.

Spain's center-left government revealed that the decision to leave Venezuela was González's alone, and he departed on an air force plane. Spanish Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares confirmed González requested political asylum during an interview with RTVE while en route to China with Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez on a state visit. Albares stated, "I have spoken to González, and once aboard the plane, he expressed gratitude to the Spanish government."

González's campaign ignited hopes among millions seeking change after a decade-long economic downturn. Despite President Nicolás Maduro being declared the winner of the election, many Western governments have not recognized the victory and demanded a vote breakdown. The dispute continues as tally sheets collected by opposition volunteers suggest González won by a significant margin.

(With inputs from agencies.)