Interim President of Venezuela Juan Guaidó attended State of the Union speech as a guest of the White House
Interim President of Venezuela, Juan Guaido is one of the guests to the State of the Union speech by Donald Trump at the Washington Capitol tonight, confirmed diplomatic sources.
The United Stated was the first country to recognize Guaidó, chairman of the Venezuelan National Assembly, as Venezuela’s interim president after he was proclaimed on January 23, 2019 as a representative in charge of that country after invoking the Constitution.
The proximity of November’s presidential election, in which Trump seeks a second term, promises to increase his attention to Venezuela and Cuba to retain the favor of cuban or venezuelan origin americans in the key state of Florida.
The White House has confirmed the presence of another venezuelan guest in Trump’s speech: Ivan Simonovis, who remained in jail for 15 years and was pardoned by Guaidó.
Donald Trump spoke a few words to Guaidó:
«We are supporting the hopes of Cubans, Nicaraguans, and Venezuelans to restore democracy. The United States is leading a 59-nation diplomatic coalition against the socialist dictator of Venezuela, Nicolas Maduro. (APPLAUSE)
Maduro is an illigitimate ruler, a tyrant who brutalizes his people, but Maduro’s grip on tyranny will be smashed and broken.
Here this evening is a very brave man, who carries with him the hopes, dreams, and aspirations of all Venezuelans. Joining us in the gallery is the true and legitimate President of Venezuela, Juan Guaido. Mr. President, please take this message back to your country». (STANDING OVATION)
And Juan Guaidó answered with:
«Thank you Mr. President, it’s a great honor. Thank you very much. Please take this message back that all Americans are united with the Venezuelan people in their righteous struggle for freedom. Thank you very much Mr. President!» (APPLAUSE)