Spain announces it will ask the EU to lift sanctions on Delcy Rodríguez after amnesty for political prisoners
Spain is requesting that the European Union lift sanctions on Venezuelan interim president Delcy Rodríguez following an amnesty law for political prisoners.
Spain's Minister of Foreign Affairs, José Manuel Albares, announced that the country will seek to persuade the European Union to lift sanctions against Delcy Rodríguez, the interim president of Venezuela. This decision comes in the wake of the Venezuelan National Assembly's unanimous approval of an amnesty law for political prisoners, a step that the Spanish government views as a positive move towards dialogue and democratization in Venezuela.
Albares emphasized that the sanctions imposed by the EU were intended as a mechanism to facilitate a peaceful dialogue in Venezuela rather than an end in themselves. With this in mind, he argued that the EU should respond positively to the unfolding political developments in Venezuela and reflect this by reconsidering the sanctions. He urged Rodríguez to create favorable conditions for the return of Venezuelans in the diaspora, showcasing Spain's commitment to democratic processes in Venezuela and the reintegration of its citizens.
This announcement indicates a shifting stance by Spain towards the Venezuelan government, reflecting broader European discussions on how to engage with Venezuela as it navigates a complex political landscape. The potential lifting of sanctions might help foster further dialogue but raises questions regarding the effectiveness of previous EU policies toward Venezuela and their impact on the ground, as opposition groups and civil society remain cautious about the government's moves.