Opposition candidate Edmundo Gonzalez Urrutia has left the country for Spain

Targeted by an arrest warrant, Edmundo Gonzalez Urrutia, the opposition candidate who claims victory in the presidential election against Nicolas Maduro, left Venezuela on Saturday, September 7, to everyone’s surprise, for Spain, which granted him asylum.

“I confirm that he left for Spain”the lawyer for Edmundo Gonzalez Urrutia, José Vicente Haro. “At his request, Edmundo Gonzalez flies to Spain on board a Spanish Air Force plane. The Spanish government is committed to respecting the political rights and physical integrity of all Venezuelans.”Spanish Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares said on social media, repeating the words of a government statement.

“Today, September 7, Edmundo Gonzalez Urrutia (…) left the country. After voluntarily taking refuge in the Spanish embassy in Caracas a few days ago, he requested political asylum from the Spanish government.”Vice President Delcy Rodriguez wrote on social media. “Venezuela has granted the necessary safe conducts in the interest of peace and political tranquility in the country”she said.