Answer given by High Representative/Vice-President Borrell on behalf of the European Commission

The High Representative/Vice-President (HR/VP) considers that the EU’s approach to Venezuela should be forward-looking and based on the political realities we face on the ground. The EU will thus maintain its engagement with all political and civil society actors striving to bring back democracy to Venezuela, including in particular Juan Guaidó and other representatives of the National Assembly elected in 2015. They are, together with all those striving to bring back democracy to Venezuela, privileged interlocutors in efforts to create a space for dialogue where tangible solutions can be found to improve the lives of Venezuelans and lead the country back to stability, prosperity and democracy.

The EU does not recognise specific governments or rulers, therefore it is not for the HR/VP or EU Member States to recognise competing claims to the Presidency. The EU has never referred to Mr Guaidó as Interim President of Venezuela but rather as the President of the National Assembly. The EU has made clear its current common position on the matter, as set out in HR/VP statements on behalf of the EU Member States in December 2020, in January 2021 and in the Council Conclusions of 25 January 2021.