U.S. Says Opponent of Venezuela’s Maduro Won Presidential Election

WASHINGTON—The U.S. recognized the opponent to Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro as the winner of that country’s disputed presidential election, increasing the pressure on the Venezuelan strongman to step down despite his claim of victory.

The announcement on Thursday by Secretary of State Antony Blinken is the latest escalation of rhetoric from Washington urging Maduro to step aside since last weekend, when polling data indicated he was trounced by his challenger, retired diplomat Edmundo González.

“Given the overwhelming evidence, it is clear to the United States and, most importantly, to the Venezuelan people that Edmundo González Urrutia won...