Edmundo González Urrutia is exiled in Spain for democracy in Venezuela.

Edmundo González Urrutia, candidate of Venezuela's largest opposition coalition, has made a decisive choice that marks a new chapter in Venezuelan politics. Announcing his exile in Spain, González argued that his departure from Venezuela is an act motivated by the need to avoid a conflict that perpetuates the "pain and suffering" that has characterized his country in recent years. In a letter published on the social media platform X, the 75-year-old politician expressed his desire to build a "new stage" for Venezuela, a yearning that has resonated with many of his supporters and compatriots. González's decision to leave his homeland was not easy, but he believes it was essential to promote change. "Only the politics of dialogue can bring us back together," he wrote in his statement, extending a hand to those who remain in the country. According to him, this gesture must be reciprocated by all those who long for a better future for Venezuela. The dialogue policy he advocates is presented as an alternative to the confrontation that has dominated the Venezuelan political scene. The former diplomat arrived in Madrid with the help of the Spanish government, a gesture that has been well received and appreciated in his arrival letter. In his new environment, his press team has assured that González will continue to fight for freedom and democracy in Venezuela from abroad. This promise to continue the battle for democratic recovery has been a recurring theme in his communication, reaffirming his commitment to the Venezuelan people, despite his geographical distance. The situation in Venezuela, marked by Nicolás Maduro's recent re-election, has created a climate of instability and repression. González had been in hiding since July, following the presidential elections on July 28, where irregularities and fraud were alleged. His decision to seek asylum in Spain underscores the severity of the political persecution he faces, a fact that Spanish Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares has acknowledged by stating that González "is better in Spain than in the ambassador's residence" in a context of semi-clandestinity. International community support has been crucial. Antony Blinken, the U.S. Secretary of State, has indicated that González represents the best hope for democracy in Venezuela. Meanwhile, the Colombian government has expressed its regret over the opposition leader's departure, highlighting the agreement between Spain and Venezuela to guarantee political asylum. This international support could be a decisive factor in González's struggle for his country's freedom. Despite the welcome and support he has received, the conservative opposition in Spain has criticized the government's stance for not formally recognizing González's victory. This situation has led to a call for a full session in the Congress of Deputies to discuss this recognition, a measure that reflects the existing political polarization in the European country. The fight for the legitimacy of the elections and the results has extended beyond Venezuelan borders, becoming a topic of international debate. González has reiterated his position by declaring that his departure is not merely an escape but a strategic move to preserve his life and freedom. Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado has supported this assertion, emphasizing that González's decision was necessary to avoid the repression currently faced by the opposition in Venezuela. The repression, which has led to the detention of opponents and violence during protests, has created a hostile environment for those who dare to challenge Maduro's regime. The situation in the South American country is alarming, with reports of deaths and mass detentions following Maduro's proclamation as re-elected. Social discontent has found expression in protests that have overflowed into the streets, reflecting a collective desire for change that has intensified in recent months. In this context, González's figure becomes a symbol of hope and resistance in the face of adversity. The future of Venezuela remains uncertain, and although González has left his country, his message of unity and dialogue resonates with those still fighting for democracy. The international community watches closely, hoping that this exile is not the end of the struggle for freedom, but a new beginning for a country that has endured years of tyranny and suffering. The story of González Urrutia and his exile in Spain could be a decisive chapter in the quest for a better future for Venezuela.