Lifting of sanctions on Venezuela and condemnation of the US once again divide the European Parliament
Support for lifting European sanctions on Venezuela and the decision on whether to include an explicit condemnation of US interference in this country in a parliamentary resolution divides the European Parliament groups this Wednesday, ahead of a vote on the Venezuelan amnesty law scheduled for Thursday.
TL;DR
- European Parliament groups are divided over lifting sanctions on Venezuela and including an explicit condemnation of US interference in a resolution.
- Some groups advocate for maintaining sanctions until significant measures towards a peaceful transition to democracy are implemented in Venezuela.
- Key measures proposed include the unconditional release of political prisoners, withdrawal of politically motivated charges, and a roadmap for free and fair elections.
- A resolution urges respect for international law but lacks an explicit condemnation of US interference, a point pushed by social democrats and greens.
- The current Venezuelan amnesty law is criticized for not achieving the release of all political prisoners and lacking independent supervision.
- Amendments are planned by some groups to condemn US interference and suggest a gradual lifting of sanctions.
- The EU High Representative previously indicated a proposal to lift sanctions on specific individuals, but no decision has been made.