In a decisive address to the Organization of American States (OAS), the Dominican Republic has formally reaffirmed its refusal to recognize any de facto government in Venezuela. The position was delivered virtually by Deputy Foreign Minister for Bilateral Policy Francisco Caraballo during an extraordinary session of the OAS Permanent Council convened specifically to address the ongoing political crisis in Venezuela.
Caraballo, representing Foreign Minister Roberto Álvarez, articulated that Santo Domingo’s stance remains unchanged following the July 28, 2024 elections. The government’s refusal to acknowledge Nicolás Maduro’s presidential proclamation stems directly from the absence of published electoral records, which it considers fundamental for democratic validation. “The Dominican Republic does not validate faits accomplis,” authorities emphasized, underscoring their commitment to procedural legitimacy.
The deputy minister presented a nuanced analysis of the crisis, acknowledging that while the Dominican government cannot legitimize an authority that remains in power contrary to the Venezuelan people’s will, it simultaneously recognizes the urgent need to address deteriorating social conditions. Caraballo identified two critical immediate priorities: maintaining the basic operational capacity of state institutions and developing a carefully structured roadmap toward democratic transition.
Emphasizing foundational inter-American principles, Caraballo stressed that any political transition must rigorously respect Venezuela’s sovereignty, self-determination, and conflict resolution through peaceful means. These principles, enshrined in the OAS Charter, the Pact of Bogotá, and the Inter-American Democratic Charter, form the non-negotiable basis for acceptable solutions.
Concluding his address, Caraballo characterized the current situation as both delicate and potentially dangerous, issuing a compelling call for hemispheric solidarity. He urged member states to exercise collective responsibility to prevent further escalation, protect vulnerable Venezuelan citizens, and preserve regional stability. The vice minister specifically challenged the OAS to demonstrate unprecedented unity and establish an effective mechanism to support Venezuela while restoring confidence in inter-American institutions.