Lula criticizes the decision of the Venezuelan TSJ and advocates for new elections in the country.

In a context of growing political tension in Latin America, the President of Brazil, Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, has expressed his disagreement with the recent decision of the Venezuelan Supreme Court, which validated Nicolás Maduro's electoral victory. Despite the institutional support Maduro has received, Lula has made it clear that he does not recognize the election results, adding a new chapter to the complex relationship between the two countries and their leaders. During an interview with a Brazilian broadcaster, Lula emphasized that his position does not imply an attack on the Venezuelan judicial system, but rather a critique of its ability to effectively resolve electoral disputes. In his view, the Supreme Court is not the appropriate body to determine the legitimacy of the election, highlighting the lack of trust in Venezuela's political institutions. This statement comes at a time when the international community is closely watching the political crisis in the neighboring country. Elections in Venezuela have been mired in controversy and accusations of fraud for years. Maduro's recent victory, proclaimed on the same night of the elections by the National Electoral Council (CNE), has been contested by the opposition. Edmundo González Urrutia, the opposition candidate, has been supported by a series of electoral records suggesting a victory in his favor, further fueling political polarization. Lula has underscored his role as a mediator in the Venezuelan crisis, working together with the Colombian government to request the CNE to present disaggregated voting records. However, this request has not been met, highlighting the difficulties in finding a peaceful and democratic solution to the situation in Venezuela. The lack of transparency in the electoral process has been a critical point that has led Lula to demand greater clarity. The Brazilian leader has also emphasized the importance of calling for new elections in Venezuela, a call that has been rejected by both Maduro's government and the opposition bloc. This situation reflects the deep political division characterizing the country and the lack of consensus on how to move forward amid the crisis. Lula's proposal could be seen as a necessary exit, but it faces strong skepticism from both sides. As international pressure on Maduro's government increases, Lula's comments could have significant implications for the regional political dynamics. Brazil's stance, as one of the most influential countries in Latin America, could influence other governments and international organizations in addressing the Venezuelan crisis. However, it could also provoke a backlash from chavismo, which has maintained a strong anti-imperialist and anti-interventionist rhetoric. The situation in Venezuela is further complicated by internal tensions. The largest opposition bloc has denounced "political persecution" against González Urrutia and his team, leading to a climate of fear and repression. This allegation raises serious questions about the viability of a fair and free electoral process in the near future. The international community will need to pay attention to these developments and how Maduro's government responds to criticism. In this context, Lula da Silva emerges as a key player in the search for a diplomatic solution to the Venezuelan crisis. His insistence on the need for transparency and new elections resonates in an environment where public trust in institutions has been severely eroded. Pressure on Maduro may increase, but the question remains whether his government will be willing to yield to these demands. Lula's words also reflect a broader strategy for Brazil in the region, seeking to position itself as a mediator and responsible leader in the Venezuelan crisis. His approach could pave the way for a more inclusive dialogue that considers the voices of all Venezuelan citizens, including those who have historically been marginalized in the political process. However, the path to resolving the crisis is uncertain and will be marked by both internal and external challenges. As the political situation in Venezuela continues to evolve, Lula da Silva's position and his call for the international community to act responsibly are crucial elements in the attempt to restore democracy and peace in the neighboring country. Venezuela's story is still unfolding, and the outcome of this crisis could have lasting repercussions for regional politics.