Colombian President Gustavo Petro has refrained from recognising Nicolás Maduro's self-declared victory in the recent Venezuelan elections, calling instead for a verifiable vote count and international oversight. In a detailed statement posted on his X account, Petro, who has often aligned with Venezuela's socialist government, expressed concerns about the credibility of the electoral process. He warned that the prevailing doubts could lead to "deep and violent polarisation" within Venezuela.

The Venezuelan electoral authority, dominated by Maduro's appointees, announced early on July 29 that the incumbent president secured victory over opposition candidate Edmundo González with 51% of the vote against González's 46%. However, both González and María Corina Machado, a disqualified candidate for whom he is running, immediately contested these results. The opposition claims to have collected 84% of the voting tabulations, asserting that González is the rightful victor.

The Carter Center, a respected international observer which monitored the vote on Maduro's invitation, stated that the election "cannot be considered democratic." This perspective aligns with earlier statements from Colombia's interior and foreign ministers, who emphasised the need for a thorough vote count in the neighbouring nation.

Petro's response is particularly significant, as he has played a key role in negotiations involving Maduro, Venezuelan opposition parties, and the US government, aimed at ensuring a fair electoral process. Since assuming office in 2022, Petro has visited Venezuela more frequently than any other country. In his statement, he invoked the legacy of Hugo Chávez, Maduro’s late mentor, who established the voting verification system that the opposition now claims is being manipulated. "President Maduro has a great responsibility today," Petro noted, urging him to honour Chávez's spirit and facilitate a peaceful resolution while accepting the transparent election results, regardless of the outcome.