BRASILIA - In a move that could reshape the political landscape of Venezuela, Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva proposed on Thursday that Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro consider holding new elections with international oversight as a potential solution to the ongoing political crisis in the country. 

During a radio interview, Lula suggested that Maduro might "present it to the people" by calling for new elections under the supervision of a non-partisan electoral committee. This, he said, could be a way to address the widespread disputes and unrest that followed the July 28 presidential elections, in which both Maduro and opposition leaders claimed victory. 

In addition to proposing new elections, Lula floated the idea of forming a coalition government as another possible path forward. He noted that such a government could help stabilize the country after the contentious elections. 

Despite these suggestions, Lula reiterated that Brazil has yet to recognize Maduro as the legitimate winner of the recent election. He emphasized the need for transparency, urging Maduro's government to release the still-undisclosed vote counts. "Maduro knows that he owes an explanation to Brazil and the world," Lula stated, signaling Brazil's continued demand for clarity in Venezuela's electoral process. 

The proposal comes amid heightened tensions and political instability in Venezuela, where the legitimacy of the July elections remains in question. Lula's comments reflect growing international concern over the situation and suggest that Brazil may play a more active role in seeking a resolution to the crisis.