Colombian President Gustavo Petro publicly condemned the arrests of two opposition figures in Venezuela, calling for respect for human rights. He stated that the recent elections held on July 28 in Venezuela were not free, which prevents Colombia from recognizing their legitimacy.
Petro announced on January 8, 2025, that he will not attend Nicolás Maduro's inauguration scheduled for January 12. He specifically referenced the arrest of former presidential candidate Enrique Márquez and Carlos Correa, director of the NGO Espacio Público, as key reasons for his absence.
In a statement on social media, Petro emphasized the need for the release of all individuals detained for political reasons in Venezuela. He attributed the lack of free elections to economic sanctions imposed by the United States, which he claimed have created significant challenges for the Venezuelan populace.
The Colombian government has expressed concerns over internal intimidation affecting the electoral process, although Petro did not provide further details. He had previously suggested the possibility of re-elections in Venezuela.
This announcement comes amid mixed reactions in Colombia, particularly from former President Juan Manuel Santos, who urged Petro to withdraw the Colombian ambassador from Caracas, following comments that the ambassador would attend Maduro's inauguration.
Colombia and Venezuela share a 2,200-kilometer porous border, where armed groups, including the ELN guerrilla, are known to operate. Caracas has also been a venue for negotiations between the Colombian government and various paramilitary organizations.