WASHINGTON/CARACAS, Jan 6 (Reuters) - Venezuelan opposition leader Edmundo Gonzalez, who claims to have won the presidential election in July and is acknowledged as president-elect by several countries, stated on Monday that he had a productive meeting with U.S. President Joe Biden and held extensive discussions with President-elect Donald Trump's security advisor. "The people of Venezuela deserve a peaceful transfer of power to the true winner of their presidential election," Biden said on X, stating that Gonzalez should be inaugurated in four days, coinciding with incumbent President Nicolas Maduro's official start of his third term.
Gonzalez's visit to Washington is part of a regional tour occurring just prior to Maduro's inauguration on Jan. 10, despite Venezuela's top court and electoral authority recognizing Maduro as the election victor.
"We had a lengthy, fruitful, and friendly discussion with President Biden and his team," Gonzalez informed journalists following his meeting with Biden at the White House.
In a statement, the Venezuelan government expressed dismay at Biden's support for a "violent project" aiming to undermine the country's democracy.
The opposition has released detailed election results indicating a decisive victory for Gonzalez, in contrast to international observers who deem the election unfair. The government has not disclosed detailed vote counts.
Later that day, Gonzalez mentioned on X that he had an extensive meeting with Mike Waltz, Trump's national security advisor. "We extensively discussed various matters, including the civic protest by Venezuelans scheduled for January 9," Gonzalez added. "He assured that the United States and the global community will monitor events in our nation."
Maduro's administration has reiterated its intention to seek Gonzalez's arrest, who currently resides in exile in Spain, should he enter Venezuela.