Spanish Prime Minister Meets Fugitive Venezuelan Opposition Leader

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez met with Venezuela's fugitive opposition leader Edmundo Gonzalez in Madrid. This follows Spain's parliament voting to recognize Gonzalez as the legitimate winner of a disputed presidential election. Sanchez pledged humanitarian support but did not officially recognize Gonzalez as president.

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez met with Venezuela's fugitive opposition leader Edmundo Gonzalez in Madrid on Thursday, a day after the lower house of Spain's parliament voted to recognize Gonzalez as the legitimate winner of a July presidential election.

Gonzalez, 75, sought refuge in Spain on Sunday while Sanchez was visiting China. The Venezuelan authorities have charged Gonzalez with conspiracy and other crimes.

Despite the symbolic vote by Spain's parliament, Sanchez stated that his government would align with the European Union and not officially recognize Gonzalez as president. Meanwhile, the Venezuelan parliament has called for cutting diplomatic ties with Spain.

(With inputs from agencies.)