Reactions to Nicolas Maduro winning a third term in Venezuelan presidential election

Leaders from across the globe have been reacting to Venezuelan electoral authority’s announcement just after midnight on Monday that President Nicolas Maduro has grabbed a third term in office, despite multiple exit polls pointing to an opposition victory.

The Venezuelan presidential election on July 28 marked a significant event both domestically and internationally. International observers and opposition parties closely monitored the polls to ensure that democratic rules had not been disrespected.

In recent years, Venezuela has been struggling to address a severe economic crisis characterised by hyperinflation, unemployment and a collapse of public services. Economic functions imposed by the US and the EU have heavily impacted the country.

Numerous Venezuelans have fled the nation in the past several years due to the ongoing crisis, leading to a major refugee situation across the region. International position on the elections, especially that of the US, is immensely important.

Reactions to Venezuelan presidential election results:

US Vice President Kamala Harris

China

“China congratulates Venezuela for smoothly holding its presidential election and congratulates President Maduro on his successful re-election,” Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Kin Jian told a regular briefing on Monday.

Chile President Gabriel Boric

Guatemalan President Bernardo Arevalo

EU Foreign Policy Chief Josep Borrell

Colombia Foreign Minister Luis Gilberto Murillo

Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel

Argentine President Javier Milei, before results