Venezuela's Presidential Election Poses Unprecedented Challenge to Maduro

Edmundo González Urrutia emerges as a unifying opposition candidate amid economic crisis and government repression.

President Nicolás Maduro faces his toughest electoral battle in over a decade of power.
Former diplomat Edmundo González Urrutia leads the opposition, supported by barred candidate María Corina Machado.
Maduro's administration has increased repression, arresting opposition members and limiting campaign reach.
Economic collapse and mass emigration have eroded Maduro's support base.
US sanctions relief was revoked following government actions against the opposition.