Venezuelan opposition leader Juan Guaidó was once on the international stage. He proclaimed himself "interim president" and established an "interim government" that was recognized by several countries in the United States, Europe and Latin America. Today, however, he is at risk of being arrested, with the Venezuelan government accusing him of misusing state resources, costing the government up to $19 billion. Guaidó's political standing faces serious challenges at home and abroad, and the Venezuelan government has announced that it is seeking Interpol's assistance in issuing a red notice.
From "interim president" to political adversity
In January 2019, Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro officially began his second term. However, Guaidó did not recognize Maduro's re-election and declared himself "self-proclaimed president" on January 23 of that year. This move attracted widespread attention in the international community, and many countries recognized his status as "interim president". His goal is to force regime change in Venezuela through diplomatic pressure, but so far that goal has not been achieved.
Although once widely supported by the international community, Guaido's international popularity gradually waned. Last year, he lost control of Venezuela's parliament and the European Union stopped supporting him. In addition, Latin America has welcomed a new set of leftist leaders, which has further weakened support for Guaidó and his "interim government."
The dissolution of the "interim government" and political disgrace
Last December, a coalition of Venezuelan opposition parties passed a proposal to dissolve the "interim government" and set up an "asset committee" to manage the country's overseas assets. The move meant the end of Guaidó's term as "interim president". Over time, his political influence within Venezuela declined dramatically.
The latest development is the official announcement by the Venezuelan government of plans to arrest Guaidó. National Attorney General Tarek William Saab said Guaidó was accused of misusing the resources of Petroleos Vazzo for personal gain, resulting in huge losses to the government. This accusation seriously threatens Guaidó's freedom and political future.
Interpol intervention
The Venezuelan government has asked Interpol to issue a "red notice" asking governments to assist in arresting Guaido. This action will further increase international pressure and put Guaidó in a more dangerous position.
Faced with this serious charge and arrest warrant, Guaidó denied the allegations on social media and claimed that he had been the victim of the dictatorship's propaganda lies. He insists that his actions are fighting for democracy and freedom in Venezuela, but at the moment his prospects are full of uncertainty!