Diaz-Balart: Administration’s Solidarity Comes at Critical Time for Venezuelan People

WASHINGTON ­­–­– Congressman Mario Diaz-Balart (FL-25) issued the following statement after Vice President Mike Pence addressed the Lima Group regarding the ongoing democratic and humanitarian crisis in Venezuela. During his remarks, Vice President Pence announced $56 million in additional humanitarian aid to allies in the region to help Venezuelans that have fled the country. He also announced sanctions against another four members of Maduro's regime.

"After another weekend of repression, arrests, and violent abuse by the Maduro regime and its Cuban-dictatorship-directed thugs, Vice President Pence's strong solidarity with the Venezuelan people comes at a critical time. Despite the desperate need for food, medicines, and other basic supplies, Maduro's henchmen blocked roadways and set aid trucks on fire to prevent these items from being delivered. Human rights abuses continue to occur; Saturday's violence left at least 4 dead and dozens more injured. The future of Venezuela is at stake, and the Vice President has made it clear that the Maduro regime must end its violent oppression. The United States will not tolerate Maduro's shameless thugs to continue these reprehensible actions, and the perpetrators will be held accountable.

"I thank President Trump and Vice President Pence for their steadfast support of the Venezuelan people. The administration and the United States Congress stand with the cause of freedom, and I reiterate my solidarity with the restoration of democracy and rule of law for the once prosperous Venezuela."

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