Today, the people of Venezuela are suffering another violation of their fundamental rights and freedoms at the hands of the corrupt Maduro regime. The illegitimate, so-called "inauguration" of Maduro to a second, six-year term is the result of last May's fraudulent voting exercise, condemned by Venezuelan and international observers because it did not reflect true democratic principles and practices.

The Maduro regime's gross economic mismanagement and widespread corruption have led to hunger, a severe health crisis, violence, and countless violations of human rights, while causing a massive exodus of Venezuelan citizens. Venezuela, a country rich in resources, has been reduced to hyperinflation, rampant crime, food shortages, and a scarcity of basic medicine. This crisis is entirely man-made.

Instead of celebrating the inauguration of a freely and fairly elected president, the Venezuelan people are witnessing a dictator's desperate attempt to cling to power. Venezuelans deserve a transparent, democratic, citizen-responsive government that provides economic opportunities and respect for human dignity, and one that undertakes the reforms necessary to build a prosperous and safe future. On behalf of USAID, I express solidarity with the Venezuelan people, who seek and deserve a government that represents their interests and is responsive to their needs.

I commend our democratic allies and the Lima Group for taking a strong stance against the Maduro regime. Last week, while in Brazil, I met with the Vice President of the Republic of Colombia Marta Lucía Ramírez, and expressed our appreciation for her country's leadership in promoting freedom and democracy throughout the Hemisphere. I also applauded Colombia's generosity in addressing the needs of Venezuelans, returning Colombians, and host communities affected by the man-made crisis created by the Maduro regime. I reiterated USAID's commitment to continue supporting the Government of Colombia's response. I expressed similar appreciation to the Foreign Minister of Brazil Chancellor Ernesto Araújo for the welcome his country has extended to Venezuelans fleeing chaos in their homeland, and for the clear statements he and President Bolsonaro have made to condemn the tyranny of the Maduro regime.