In Venezuela, widespread protests erupted following the announcement of Nicolás Maduro's victory in the presidential election, which was marred by allegations of fraud. Security forces used tear gas to disperse protesters in Caracas, and there were reports of shooting at demonstrators by pro-Maduro groups. Similar protests occurred in other cities, with demonstrators expressing their disbelief in the official results and demanding the truth. The National Electoral Council (CNE), dominated by Maduro supporters, declared Maduro the winner but has not released final vote counts.
The opposition claimed their observers were blocked from the CNE during the count, and they produced evidence they believe shows their candidate, Edmundo Gonzalez, won with over 6 million votes compared to Maduro's 2.7 million. Maduro accused the protesters of being violent criminals instigated by the United States and stated his government is prepared to confront the situation. The CNE has been accused of manipulating results in the past, and the opposition coalition, led by Maria Corina Machado, rejected Maduro's victory.
