Putin congratulates Venezuela’s Maduro for winning 3rd term as president

ISTANBUL

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Monday congratulated Venezuela's Nicolas Maduro for his victory in the presidential election held the previous day.

"Russian-Venezuelan relations are of a strategic partnership nature. I am confident that your activities as head of state will continue to contribute to their progressive development in all areas," Putin said in a letter published by the Kremlin.

Saying that the win fully meets the interests of the Russian and Venezuelan people and is "in line with building a more just and democratic world order," Putin expressed his readiness to continue working with Maduro on current bilateral and international issues.

"Remember that you are always a welcome guest on Russian soil. I wish you success, as well as good health and well-being," he added.

Maduro, 61, secured 51% of the vote against 44% by opposition leader Edmundo Gonzalez, according to the National Electoral Council. The results, however, have been disputed by the opposition.

In his victory speech, Maduro, who won a third term, said his reelection would bring peace and stability.

ISTANBUL

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Monday congratulated Venezuela's Nicolas Maduro for his victory in the presidential election held the previous day.

"Remember that you are always a welcome guest on Russian soil. I wish you success, as well as good health and well-being," he added.

Maduro, 61, secured 51% of the vote against 44% by opposition leader Edmundo Gonzalez, according to the National Electoral Council. The results, however, have been disputed by the opposition.

In his victory speech, Maduro, who won a third term, said his reelection would bring peace and stability.