Controversy in Podemos over Montero's support for Maduro's victory in Venezuela.

The recent statement by Irene Montero, a Member of the European Parliament and a key figure in the Spanish party Podemos, has reignited the debate about the relationship between Spanish politics and Nicolás Maduro's regime in Venezuela. In her remarks, Montero suggested that Maduro's victory in the recent elections reflects the will of the people that must be respected, even by those who oppose his government. This stance has provoked a wave of criticism, both within and outside her party, and has once again brought to the forefront the historical ties between Podemos and chavismo. The controversy intensified when Antonia Orellana, Chile's Minister of Women and Gender Equity, responded to Montero. Orellana pointed out Montero's lack of sensitivity in using the situation in Venezuela as an internal political argument in Europe, reminding her that the consequences of Maduro's government are felt directly in Latin America. This exchange highlights the complex landscape in which European politics intertwines with Latin American crises. Amid the controversy, Podemos was forced to issue a statement demanding the publication of the electoral records, attempting to distance itself from Montero's open defense of the Venezuelan government. However, this attempt to disassociate comes in a context where the party's relations with chavismo have been scrutinized for years, leading many to question the extent to which Podemos has been committed to Maduro's regime. The fact that a party that has been part of Pedro Sánchez's government celebrates the victory of such a controversial leader as Maduro raises questions about the Spanish Executive's stance on the crisis in Venezuela. Throughout his term, Sánchez has avoided referring to Venezuela as a dictatorship, thereby sidestepping a strong critique that could affect diplomatic relations. This silence has been interpreted by many as a lack of commitment to the democratic principles that should guide Spain's foreign policy. The figure of José Luis Rodríguez Zapatero also plays a crucial role in this framework. The former Spanish Prime Minister has been criticized for his frequent visits to Caracas, where he has presented himself as a mediator between chavismo and the opposition. However, his role has been questioned, as many see him as a facilitator of the regime, attempting to soften Maduro's image in Europe and advocating for the reduction of economic sanctions imposed by the international community. Orellana's words and Zapatero's silence after the elections reflect a deep division within the European left on how to address the Venezuelan crisis. While some leaders choose to defend Maduro and his government, others, like Orellana, seek a more critical stance that recognizes the realities on the ground. This dilemma extends beyond Spain's borders, affecting the perception of socialism in Europe and its capacity to effectively address crises in Latin America. The episode also highlights the internal challenges faced by Podemos. The public defense of such a controversial regime as Maduro's may alienate segments of the electorate that value democracy and human rights. The pressure on Podemos to take a clearer stance will intensify, especially in a context where public opinion is increasingly critical of the situation in Venezuela. Thus, the link between Podemos and chavismo is not merely a matter of political ideology; it has become a topic of debate regarding the moral responsibility of leftist parties in Europe. The way these parties choose to address the crisis in Venezuela could define not only their reputation but also their future in a continent where trust in institutions and political parties is at low levels. In conclusion, the case of Irene Montero and the celebration of Maduro's victory underscores the complexity of relations between Spain and Venezuela, as well as the need for deep reflection on the implications of these relations in European politics. As the ties between leftist parties and controversial regimes are examined more closely, it becomes evident that politics cannot ignore the human realities unfolding on the ground. Democracy and respect for human rights must prevail over ideological loyalties.